US and Mexican border towns affected by ongoing sewage spills

Millions of gallons of sewage are passing through a canyon and into the Pacific Ocean to the south of the US-Mexico border each day. Millions of additional gallons of treated and untreated sewage are also entering the sea north of the border via the Tijuana River. The International Wastewater Treatment Plant, which belongs to the International Boundary and Water Commission, governed by US-Mexico treaties, treats 25 million gallons per day when functioning properly. However, infrastructure breakdowns and Tropical Storm Hilary have caused problems with its operation. The plant is set to receive a $30m upgrade and a $400m expansion, but could require another $200m in investment. (Reuters)