Space Hopper Causes Sewer Blockage in Glasgow
Scottish Water discovered a large space hopper lodged in a sewer pipe in Glasgow after a busy road experienced flooding due to the blockage.
The utility company reported that the inflatable toy was stuck in a pipe and "covered in sludge," likely having been deliberately pushed down a manhole.
A response team removed the space hopper from the sewer in the Royston area of the city last Friday.
Impact and Other Causes of Blockages
Team manager Steven Bennett commented on the incident:
It might raise a smile, but the impact is serious. When you add something like this into the mix, it can quickly turn into a major issue.
Bennett also noted that the primary causes of sewer blockages are wet wipes, along with "sanitary products, cotton buds, contact lenses, and fats, oils and grease."
Unusual Discoveries in Sewer Pipes
He added:
You never quite know what you're going to find when you lift a manhole cover or dig down to a sewer pipe – but a mouldy space hopper is definitely one of the more unusual discoveries.
Over the years, Scottish Water has found a variety of unexpected items, including a large Winnie the Pooh teddy, a bike, a pair of jeans, fluffy handcuffs, and even a snake.
Blockage Statistics
Scottish Water manages approximately 36,500 blockages annually across Scotland, incurring costs exceeding £7 million.
