Residents of Bryan Brook Estate in Paulshof say they are growing increasingly frustrated over what they describe as a lack of action from the City of Johannesburg regarding ongoing smoke pollution and a worsening rodent infestation they believe is linked to nearby informal settlements.

The concerns were first formally raised with the city earlier this year, with residents alleging that smoke from fires and the burning of waste in the Ginger Farm and Clay Oven informal settlements has negatively affected their quality of life.

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In a recent follow-up letter addressed to the office of the Executive Mayor Dada Morero, resident Dawie Mullins said residents had received little feedback since being informed in March that the matter had been escalated to relevant municipal departments.

“To say that I am disappointed with the lack of communication and visible action from the City of Johannesburg would be an understatement.”

He said residents had not received meaningful updates on what interventions had taken place nor when they could expect relief from the issues they have reported.

The situation has worsened in recent months, with residents now also reporting an increase in rats and mice within the estate.

“The rodent infestation has become a serious health concern and is having a significant impact on residents’ quality of life.”

Residents claim smoke regularly drifts into their homes, particularly during the evenings, forcing them to keep windows and doors closed.

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Some have also expressed concerns about possible health impacts, particularly for children and elderly residents. Resident Catherine Wanjawa alleged that the smoke from fires in nearby informal settlements was contributing to respiratory discomfort, and other health concerns among residents.

The office of the executive mayor acknowledged receipt of the complaint, and indicated that it had been escalated to departments responsible for environmental health, waste management, and human settlements for assessment and possible intervention.

Mullins requested an update from the city on interventions undertaken so far, the departments involved, future plans, expected timelines, and the status of any processes relating to the Ginger Farm informal settlement.

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Simon Mokwena, from Clay Oven, acknowledged the residents’ concerns, and said that they recently had a meeting about the issue of smoke in an effort to address it.

“Our neighbours also need to understand that our people are using fire wood to cook and keep warm. On the other hand, we have had issues of people burning rubbish in front of our entrance, and that is what the meeting we had was all about, so that they can stop.”

At the time of publication, the City of Johannesburg had not yet responded to requests for updated comment on the matter.

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