TOWARDS THE SUSTAINABLE WATER QUALITY MANAGEMENT OF AN URBANISED AFRICAN RIVER CATCHMENT: THE KLIP RIVER, GAUTENG, SOUTH AFRICA

Abstract

Summary A water quality impact assessment of Greater Johannesburg's three southern wastewater treatment works was undertaken to quantify present and predict future contributions of pollution to the Klip River, as well as the impact on downstream users. This information is required to assist the Department of Water Affairs and Forestry in setting appropriate standards for the treated effluent discharged from these works. and for the integrated water quality management of the entire Klip River system. The study showed that the wetlands in the Klip River system have a distinct and important role to play in the abatement of diffuse pollution. A contradictory view is held. however, by many local communities. Their feeling is that the wetlands are unsafe areas and aesthetically unacceptable due to their propensity to act as waste traps.