Local homeowner’s back yard turns into dump site

Albertsdal homeowner Hlobisile Nsele has been in many quarrels with those turning her home’s backspace into an illegal dump site.

For years, she has had to tolerate unpleasant smells, which only get worse in the summertime as a result of illegal dumping occurring in an open veld situated outside her place.

Nsele has since pleaded with her neighbours to help fight the problem of illegal dumping. Her neighbour Katlego Motala said this was a great concern and that their cries have gone unheard.

“I fear that our safety is being compromised as a woman, because with illegal dumping and long grass it will invite criminal elements. We also feel that the local municipality should intervene and assist us in resolving this issue,” she said.

The EMPD has received her complaint and is attending to it.

“I’ve complained before. We received assistance in cleaning up the space, but yet again people have turned our land into a dumping site. This is so degrading. What is even worse is that people who do not even reside in our area dump their rubbish in the open land,” she explained.

According to Nsele, not only is this bad for their area but it is detrimental to their health as there are flies that end up in their households.

“Someone even dumped a dead animal. We cannot open windows as the smell is unbearable. There are flies everywhere and with this heat, it is going to get worse. I ask on the behalf of the community that we get assistance to make the community aware of what’s going on,” she said.

She asked that the area be fenced so there is no trespassing or illegal dumping and recommended clear signage condemning illegal dumping.

The EMPD advised that if the community witnessed illegal dumping they should immediately contact the call centre on 086 054 3000 or 011 458 0911.