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Call for submissions in respect of the Commission’s investigation of the environmental pollution and raw sewage pouring into the Wemmer Pan Lake
Attention: Editors and Reporters
9 November 2022
The investigation follows allegations of environmental pollution and raw sewage pouring into the Wemmer Pan Lake. The Commission in the Gauteng Province, received complaints with photos via email from local businesses such as RANDCO and River Bend Villas, indicating the perilous nature of the lake’s pollution. According to the complaints received and media reports, the lake is heavily polluted, covered by an almost shiny oily layer and the stench of hydrogen-sulphide. This has negatively affected the local community, businesses, and those who use the lake for recreational purposes.
9 November 2022
The investigation follows allegations of environmental pollution and raw sewage pouring into the Wemmer Pan Lake. The Commission in the Gauteng Province, received complaints with photos via email from local businesses such as RANDCO and River Bend Villas, indicating the perilous nature of the lake’s pollution. According to the complaints received and media reports, the lake is heavily polluted, covered by an almost shiny oily layer and the stench of hydrogen-sulphide. This has negatively affected the local community, businesses, and those who use the lake for recreational purposes.
After the abovementioned complaints and media reports, the Commission conducted a site-inspection of the lake on 15 February 2022. Moreover, on 2 March 2022, the Commission addressed correspondence to representatives of the local businesses affected by the pollution and advised that the ongoing pollution of the lake would be investigated.[1]
In line with the undertaking and in accordance with its mandate, the Commission has resolved to host a provincial inquiry into, alleged human rights infringements to dignity, freedom and security of the person; and the right to a safe environment, as well as looking at the constitutional obligations of local, provincial and national government.
The purpose of this notice is to solicit input from the stakeholders affected by the pollution.
The Commission also aims to receive submissions from officials responsible for the maintenance of the lake.
The inquiry is scheduled to take place on Tuesday, 6 December 2022.
To this end, the Commission hereby invites members of the public, civil society organizations, and interested parties with relevant information relating to the inquiry to make submissions to the panel for consideration as well as potential follow-up and participation.
Written submissions must be delivered to the Commission by 1 December 2022 to Ms. Maria Mnyakeni at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. copying Nomfundo Mamogale This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Physical Address: 27 Stiemens Street, Braamfontein (JD House) first floor.
For inquiries please contact Zamantungwa Mbeki This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 011 377 8766.
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The Human Rights Commission is the national institution established to support constitutional democracy. It is committed to promote respect for, observance of and protection of human rights for everyone without fear or favour.
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