VROMI to block illegal wastewater pipes connected to drains and roads

The Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (VROMI) said it will block pipes and connections found illegally discharging wastewater into public drainage systems or onto public roads. The ministry issued the warning to property owners, businesses, contractors and other parties.

VROMI said such discharges violate the National Wastewater Ordinance and the Algemeen Politie Keur (APK). It said the practice can create environmental and public-health concerns, unpleasant odours and unsanitary conditions, and affect drainage infrastructure and the surrounding environment.

The ministry said property owners and establishments are responsible for ensuring their systems are not illegally connected to public drainage infrastructure or used to discharge wastewater onto roads. It called on residents who see suspected illegal discharges to report them to VROMI and the Ministry of Justice.