A collapse in the Potomac Interceptor sewer line sent over 200 million gallons of waste water into the Potomac River, prompting recreation advisories while officials said the region’s drinking water remained safe.
According to DC Water, a section of the 54‑mile Potomac Interceptor sewer line collapsed on January 19 along Clara Barton Parkway in Montgomery County, causing a major overflow into the C&O Canal National Historical Park. The line normally carries about 60 million gallons of wastewater each day from areas including Dulles Airport to D.C.’s Blue Plains treatment plant.
DC Water said crews quickly moved to build a bypass, which went into service on January 24, using pumps and the C&O Canal to divert flow around the damaged segment.
Is the Potomac River Drinking Water Safe?
“It’s important to note, DC Water’s drinking water system is separate from the wastewater system, and we want to reassure the public the drinking water is safe, and water service is NOT affected by this incident,” DC Water said…