Atlanta Faces Lawsuit Over Sewage Discharges into Chattahoochee River
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The Chattahoochee Riverkeeper has initiated a lawsuit against the city of Atlanta, accusing it of violating the Clean Water Act due to the improper discharge of sewage into the Chattahoochee River. The environmental nonprofit had previously warned city officials since July to rectify the issues at the R. M. Clayton Water Reclamation Center, which is the largest treatment facility in the city. According to the Riverkeeper, the facility has been discharging an estimated 80 million gallons of only partially treated wastewater into the river each day.
Their testing has indicated concerning levels of E. coli and other hazardous bacteria, with average levels reported to be 340 times higher than what the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency deems safe for recreational water. The lawsuit highlights the critical need for the city to address these environmental violations promptly to safeguard public health and the ecosystem.
The Riverkeeper's actions reflect a growing concern over water quality and environmental protection in the region. As the legal proceedings unfold, it remains to be seen how the city will respond to these serious allegations. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining clean waterways for the community's health and well-being.