Icon Water has advised that due to the heavy rain over the past three days infiltrating the sewerage system, the Lower Molonglo Water Quality Control Centre treatment plant was expected to discharge a small amount of partially treated effluent into the Molonglo River today. This was expected to occur between around 11.10am and 12.10pm as the rain continues.
In a media statement, Icon Water advised:
“The majority of the flow that was to be discharged would continue to be fully treated and fully disinfected, with a small portion of partially treated effluent that is not fully disinfected.
“Icon Water advises residents on the section of the Murrumbidgee River, from the junction of the Molonglo River and above Burrinjuck Reservoir, not to draw water from the river for either potable (drinking or food preparation) or non-potable (domestic or stock watering) purposes for the next 48 hours [until after midday Tuesday 11 August]. Icon Water also advises against swimming and other bodily contact water sports in this section of Murrumbidgee River over this period.
“Please note that there is no risk to the ACT water supply. Residents can continue to use their taps and normal drinking water.
“Icon Water has notified both the ACT and NSW Environment Protection Authorities (EPAs), ACT Health and close by residents that may be affected by the discharge.
“For further information please call Icon Water’s faults and emergencies line on 02 6248 3111. For updates please go to iconwater.com.au/mediareleases or twitter.com/iconwater.”
ACT road closures due to wet weather
Meanwhile, heavy rains have also forced the closure of several roads in the ACT.
The ACT Government is advising motorists and other road users to exercise caution on roads particularly rural roads and unsealed roads with heavy rains this weekend.
The following road closures are in place:
- Morisset Road, Mitchell (between Flemington Road and Old Wells Station Road)
- Coppins Crossing
- Oaks Estate Crossing
- Point Hut Crossing
- Boboyan Road
The government advises that “for your own safety, please follow all directions from traffic management staff and signage”. For up-to-date information on road closures, visit www.cityservices.act.gov.au
