Seefeld investigates repeated illegal sewer discharges

Seefeld municipality is investigating repeated illegal discharges into its sewer system, ORF reports. High phosphate levels have reportedly been detected two to three times a week around midnight, causing treated wastewater to exceed permitted limits.

Mayor Andrea Neuner said the situation posed an imminent danger. The sudden phosphate increases had been recorded repeatedly in recent weeks.

Possible causes include large quantities of slaughterhouse or food waste and cleaning products from hotels and other hospitality businesses. Such discharges, as well as the use of kitchen waste disposers, are strictly prohibited in Austria.

All businesses connected to the wastewater treatment plant must ensure that kitchen, food, slaughterhouse or other waste, along with any other unauthorised substances, do not enter the sewer system.

Neuner said continued violations could lead to a criminal complaint, with the costs of remedial measures charged to those responsible.