The city has managed to slow the amount of raw sewage seeping into the Red River.   

While doing a routine inspection at the end of November, city staff discovered a leak in one of two pipes that run under the river near the Fort Garry Bridge and direct sewage from the southwest part of Winnipeg to the South End Sewage Treatment Plant.

The leaky pipe, built in 1970, was taken out of service immediately, with the thought the remaining pipe would be able to handle the flow while crews worked on a bypass system, which would direct sewage to the treatment plant until the pipes could be permanently replaced. 

Crews started working on the bypass system on Feb. 5. Two days later, the remaining pipe failed. 

Work to complete the bypass was accelerated to reduce possible impacts on the environment, and following mechanical repairs, the second pump needed to handle the flow in the sewer was installed Wednesday evening. 

“There is still a risk of intermittent spills while crews continue to improve the reliability and operation of the bypass system over the next few days,” said Tim Shanks, Director of the Water and Waste Department.

Until then, The City is asking residents and businesses in the areas of St. Norbert, Fort Richmond, Richmond West, Waverley West, Bridgwater, Linden Woods, Linden Ridge, Whyte Ridge, Waverley Heights, and the University of Manitoba to continue reducing water usage.