The ward 116 councillor, Clr Mike Spadino, urged residents not to burn their garden refuse in their properties.
Clr Spadino said the number of these cases has increased in the past few weeks.
“Due to the time of the season, there are a lot of dry leaves in our garden. Most people are clearing their gardens for the new season. Some think it is acceptable and cheaper for them to burn the refuse in their gardens,” he said.
Clr Spadino said the act is illegal and is a health hazard.
“Burning the refuse is harmful to our atmosphere and other residents’ health. It is also against the bylaws. If one is found, he or she may be fined,” said Clr Spadino.
A resident in the area, Mr Gavin Benson, said these incidents are affecting his asthmatic child.
“It is creating a huge issue, not only due to the stink and soot, but also due to the fact that I have an asthmatic child who suffers immensely when the garden refuse is burnt,” said Mr Benson.
He said the problem persists because no action is taken against those who burn their garden refuse in their gardens.
“Had the original problem been properly addressed, then the expanded problem we now have would not exist. Because other residents are getting away with it, everybody thinks that it is legal and condoned by the City of Johannesburg to do it,” he said.
One of the residents accused of burning her garden refuse, Mrs Assy Mwaluka, said the refuse in her garden was mistakenly burnt.
“We had a braai at home. When the children were clearing up they threw the hot charcoal on the refuse. We were still waiting for the collectors to come and collect it. The children thought the fire was dead but due to the wind and dry leaves, the fire was reignited,” she said.
Clr Spadino said there are ways to dispose of garden refuse.
“You can dispose it at the municipality’s dumping site, or use it as manure for your garden,” he said.
