San José del Guaviare residents report sewage overflow and safety risks

In San José del Guaviare, Colombia, residents of the El Porvenir neighborhood are reporting significant issues caused by sewage overflow from a manhole near the Providencia wetland. Local merchant Martha Liliana Arango stated that the overflow, caused by sand and debris buildup, has created foul odors that are negatively impacting local commerce.

The situation also poses a physical danger to commuters. The pressure from the sewage has repeatedly dislodged the manhole cover, leading to accidents involving a cargo motorcycle and a motorcyclist. Despite residents collecting signatures and requesting cleaning services, the issue remains unresolved, with temporary measures like placing stones on the cover failing to prevent the lid from lifting.