By Correspondent
Three City of Harare employees died on Wednesday after allegedly succumbing to noxious gases in a decommissioned clarifier.
In a statement Council kept details to a minimum.
“Initial reports indicate the employees were working on a decommissioned clarifier when tragedy struck.
“The City is investigating the incident.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, and loved ones affected by this devastating loss.
Trail of Death
The tragedy is the second such in 2025 after another incident at the Glen View sewage treatment plant.
Two City of Harare employees died after inhaling toxic fumes at the municipality’s Glen View plant.
Peter Mupinga and Steven Mangombe died on 31 August at Firle Sewage Treatment Plant after inhaling toxic gases from a faulty biogas valve.
The Harare incident follows similar ones in Gweru and Kadoma where two employees suffocated respectively while working in sewer manholes.
Dangerous Working Conditions
Testimonies gathered by the Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission (ZHRC) revealed that workers routinely operate in dangerous conditions without protective gear.
Sewer drains generally contain hydrogen sulphide, a highly poisonous gas which when inhaled in confined spaces can paralyse the lungs within minutes.
Other toxic gases commonly found in sewers include methane and carbon dioxide.
These can displace oxygen, leading to suffocation, while ammonia may cause respiratory failure at high levels.
