Sewage Originating From Ċumnija Wastewater Implant Turns Ċirkewwa Sea Into Murky Brown
Sewage originating from the Water Services Corporation (WSC) Ċumnija Sewage Treatment Implant saw the surrounding seawater turn into a murky brown over the weekend.
Photos sent to Lovin Malta captured by hikers frequenting the location show the brown seawater surrounding the area of the treatment plant.
Sewage leaks can have a detrimental effect on marine life, even causing dead zones in certain cases. This is not the first time that Malta’s seawater has been subject to sewage leaks, with similar leaks in the month of April affecting popular diving spots in Gozo.
Regarding this instance, a spokesperson for the WSC explained that “seasonal peaks in wastewater are an expected occurrence in our region”.
“During these times, the Ċumnija Wastewater Treatment Plant operates beyond its design capacity. This situation is exacerbated by the influx of unregulated farmyard waste discharges.”
“The need to upgrade the Ċumnija plant has been recognized as a top priority in the Water Services Corporation (WSC) 2020-2023 Business Plan, in response to the significant growth in population and tourism within the Malta North catchment area.”
“The planned upgrade for the Ċumnija plant involves an estimated investment of €15 million and is projected to be completed by 2026. Currently, feasibility studies are in progress, which will lead to the development of a detailed design and the acquisition of necessary permits.”
They continued to explain that, in the meantime, WSC has implemented measures to optimize the plant’s treatment process, introduced upstream flow management controls, and is addressing farm-waste discharges in collaboration with the Malta Agricultural and Fisheries Agency (MAFA).
“Our commitment to meeting current and future demands is unwavering, and we will continue to align our efforts with the EU Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive and its forthcoming revisions.”
“We appreciate your understanding and support as we work towards a cleaner and more sustainable environment for all.”
Have you ever spotted drainage leaks in Malta or Gozo?
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