Your sewer pipe has everything to do with connecting your home or business with the main sewer line of the city. That pipe being damaged can have all sorts of repercussions for you such as not allowing you to flush your toilets, making your tap water not safe to drink or use without boiling, and even causing your sinks, tubs, and other output areas to become backed up and exposed. It is a very dangerous situation, and a very dirty one that can cause all sorts of sickness and bacteria to arise from underground. It is a serious issue that should be addressed immediately and would warrant immediate help from professionals.