Residents take matters into their own hands to improve the safety and appearance of neglected Magaliessig
Residents living along Witkoppen Rd and Merrow Rd have taken matters into their own hands to enhance the safety and appearance of their neighbourhood by tackling the issue of neglected maintenance.
In a remarkable display of community spirit and determination, residents living along Witkoppen Road and Merrow Road have taken matters into their own hands to enhance the safety and appearance of their neighbourhood. They accomplished this by tackling the issue of neglected maintenance. Frustrated by the lack of action from City Parks and Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) residents decided to initiate a change themselves.
For months, the grass had been left unattended, while litter had accumulated along the roadside. This negligence not only created an eyesore but also posed potential hazards to both drivers and pedestrians. Despite numerous complaints made to the city authorities, no steps were taken to address the issue.
Determined to make a difference, a group of residents organized a community clean-up event. Armed with lawnmowers, rakes, and garbage bags, they set out to clear the overgrown grass and remove the accumulated trash. The event witnessed an overwhelming response, with dozens of people volunteering their time to lend a hand.
The clean-up not only improved the overall appearance of the area but also had a positive impact on safety. By trimming back, the grass: drivers now enjoy an unobstructed view of the road, thus reducing the risk of accidents. Pedestrians can now freely utilize the sidewalks without having to navigate through overgrown vegetation or piles of litter.
Inspired by the success of the community clean-up, residents have vowed to sustain their efforts in maintaining the area. They have established a neighbourhood watch group to monitor the vicinity and promptly report any issues to the relevant authorities. Additionally, they plan to organize regular clean-up events to ensure the continued safety and attractiveness of the area.
Magaliessig Action Forum’s (MAF) chair, Mary Hanna said. “MAF is the local resident’s association working for the benefit of the Magaliessig community, we welcome the volunteers who are helping and hope more residents will actively participate in the MAF security system.”
Ward 93 Councillor Vino Reddy expressed his gratitude, saying, “I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to Mary Hanna, Magaliessig Action Forum, and the residents of Magaliessig for their extraordinary community spirit in picking up litter and cutting the grass on Witkoppen Rd.” Reddy further emphasized the need for action, stating, “Long grass on both Witkoppen Rd and Main Rd in our ward has been ignored for far too long. Overgrown vegetation poses significant security risks as it provides hiding spots for criminals and obstructs motorists’ visibility.”
Reddy commended MAF and other residents’ associations for their dedicated community service. He remarked, “I commend MAF and other residents’ associations for their commitment to community service. However, it should not be the responsibility of civic organizations to fulfil the basic duties that the provincial authorities have failed to address.”
This residents’ initiative has underscored the significance of community involvement in maintaining public spaces. While it remains the responsibility of the city authorities to ensure the upkeep of public areas, residents can play a pivotal role in safeguarding the safety and attractiveness of their neighbourhoods.
According to JRA’s spokesperson “The area in question belongs to the province, it does not fall under the JRA’s jurisdiction,” said Bertha Peters-Scheepers.
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