Concerned Paulshof residents have launched an urgent petition calling on the City of Johannesburg and provincial authorities to act against what they describe as a rapid and distressing decline in the quality of life in their suburb.

Residents said their quality of life has deteriorated significantly in recent years as various forms of lawlessness have taken root. The petition points to ongoing illegal activities along the Braamfontein and Sandspruit riverbanks, including loud rituals, animal slaughter, littering, public nudity, and open fires.

Read more: Jukskei Park family has had enough of church rituals at the river

Long-time resident and former chairperson of the Paulshof Residents and Ratepayers Association, Albert Gumbi, said residents have reached their breaking point. “We are witnessing our beloved Paulshof deteriorating in front of our eyes. Our peaceful enjoyment of our homes is being destroyed. It’s not just about discomfort anymore, it’s about safety, dignity, and basic respect for the law,” he said.

Gumbi said these practices continue unabated, despite repeated complaints to authorities, and are creating noise pollution, health hazards, and environmental damage. The petition highlights the growing concern over an expanding informal settlement along the spruit, which residents say is directly linked to increased crime in the area.

Allegations of theft, break-ins, and illegal business operations, including the recycling of waste and precast concrete manufacturing, have been raised.

In addition, residents are frustrated by illegal hawkers and street traders operating without permits, particularly along Witkoppen Road. These spots have become magnets for litter, public drinking, and general disorder, further tarnishing the image of the suburb.

Taxi drivers, too, have drawn residents’ ire for regularly flouting traffic laws, executing illegal U-turns, parking on sidewalks, ignoring red lights, and driving into oncoming traffic, all in plain sight of Metro police officers who reportedly do nothing to intervene.

In a recent development, Gauteng MEC for Agriculture, Rural Development, and Environment, Vuyiswa Ramokopa, visited the residents three weeks ago to hear their concerns. Speaking to this publication, Ramokopa said, “This is not just about environmental damage, it’s a matter of public dignity and human rights. Every person deserves to live in an area that is safe, clean, and respectful. I fully support this petition and will engage relevant departments to ensure this is addressed properly and lawfully.”

Ramokopa confirmed that the issue has been prioritised within her office, adding that coordinated enforcement across city and provincial departments is essential.

Gumbi said the community is grateful for the MEC’s support, “We want this to be a collaborative solution. We are not fighting against the city, we are fighting for our community.”

To help Paulshof residents fight for the beloved suburb sign: https://chng.it/yV7KhqTLGV.

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