Durban residents are growing increasingly concerned about the safety of their tap water, with many reporting illnesses and stomach problems after consuming it. The fears have been sparked by recent changes in the taste and odour of the water, which has been linked to elevated levels of 2-methylisoborneol (MIB), a naturally occurring compound that can cause an earthy or musty taste and odour.
According to the water purification process, MIB is a common issue in water treatment, but the eThekwini Municipality has reassured residents that the water remains safe for human consumption. However, many residents are not convinced, with some reporting symptoms such as diarrhoea, stomach cramps, and nausea after drinking the tap water.
What is 2-Methylisoborneol?
2-Methylisoborneol (MIB) is a naturally occurring compound that can be found in surface water systems, particularly during periods of increased algae growth. While it does not pose a health risk, it can cause an unpleasant taste and odour in the water.
Pharmacist from the Sparksport Pharmacy group reported an increase in stomach-related complaints, with many residents buying bottled water due to concerns over the quality of the municipal supply. “We are seeing a lot of stomach cramps, diarrhoea, and nausea. A lot of people are sick,” she said.
Residents’ Concerns
Some residents have reported that the water smells foul and has a “sandy” or “earthy” taste, while others have described the water flowing from taps as whitish or brown. Morningside resident Charles Cane said his 84-year-old mother, Myrna, became severely ill after drinking tap water. “She has eaten the same food for years and hardly ever leaves the house except to go to church on Sundays,” Cane said.
Cane said he also developed stomach problems, and the family doctor suspected the illness may have been linked to the water supply, although no definitive cause had been confirmed. The eThekwini Municipality has said it is working closely with uMngeni-uThukela Water to address the issue, with intervention measures including intensified water treatment processes, more frequent filtration cycles, and enhanced monitoring systems.
- Intensified water treatment processes
- More frequent filtration cycles
- Enhanced monitoring systems
For more information on water quality, visit the Department of Water and Sanitation website.
