What might be a consequence of inadequate maintenance of sewer systems?

Inadequate maintenance of sewer systems often leads to frequent backups and spills. Regular maintenance practices, such as cleaning, inspecting, and repairing sewer lines, are essential to ensure that the system functions properly. When maintenance is insufficient, issues like blockages, corrosion, and leaks can arise, causing the system to malfunction. This malfunction can result in sewage overflowing from manholes or breaking through the ground, which poses significant public health risks and environmental hazards.

Frequent backups disrupt daily life, cause property damage, and can lead to costly emergency responses. Furthermore, spills from sewer systems can contaminate local water bodies, impacting ecosystems and the quality of drinking water. Regular maintenance is crucial not only for the operational efficiency of sewer systems but also for safeguarding public health and the environment.