The Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans is diverting raw sewage into the Mississippi River as an emergency measure after a sewer force main break at one of its facilities.
According to SWB officials, a 60-inch main broke at Station D on Florida Avenue. Officials say they activated their emergency plan on Friday “in accordance with all relevant federal and state regulatory authorities.” In a press release, SWB executive director Ghassan Koran said diverting the sewage to the river was crucial to prevent backups in homes.
“SWBNO crews have accessed the aging pipe, which is over 60 years old, for repair and extent of the damage has proven to be more severe than initially anticipated,” the press release said. “Crews and contractors are actively working to assess the full scope of the necessary repairs and have mobilized additional resources to expedite the process. A plan of action and contingencies are in place to address the damage and repair the main in the short term. A long-term solution includes a full replacement of the aging main segment.”
Sewerage and Water Board officials say they are in direct communication with regulatory authorities, emergency personnel, and neighboring water utilities to keep them apprised of the situation.
