Concerns over litter, debris build-up, and informal recycling activities along the Braamfontein Spruit in Paulshof have drawn a response from Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ), which said it will assess the situation following complaints from residents.

According to JCPZ spokesperson Jenny Moodley, sections of the spruit and surrounding riverbanks within Paulshof Spruit Park can occasionally be affected by litter and waste accumulation.

“It is important to note that much of the pollution seen in urban waterways is often transported through the stormwater system from upstream areas or enters the river through illegal dumping and littering in surrounding communities.”

Read more:Councillor calls for solution to recycling and pollution along Paulshof Spruit Park 

Moodley explained that JCPZ teams carry out routine maintenance in parks and along accessible river sections, which includes litter collection, vegetation management, and general environmental upkeep.

In addition, she said the city’s Integrated Catchment Management team responds to public complaints and may implement targeted clean-up operations or environmental ‘blitz’ interventions as needed. These interventions can involve park rangers, regional teams, the JMPD, and other city stakeholders.

“These efforts are often supported by teams from the Expanded Public Works Programme as well as community-led clean-up initiatives.”

Ward 93 councillor Vino Reddy has also engaged with representatives from Henley Business School, as the recycling activities take place at the school’s back entrance.

According to Reddy, waste recyclers living near the bridge by the school collect paper, plastics, and packaging, which are sorted into bags before being collected weekly by recycling buyers.

Also read: Councillor engages mall owners over illegal dumping in Craigavon

However, the councillor said recyclables are sometimes placed out several days before collection, leaving them exposed to the elements and potentially contributing to pollution.
Jacques le Roux, chief operating officer of the school, said the situation was an eyesore for the institution’s international visitors.

He added that while recycling is an important entrepreneurial activity, it should take place in appropriate areas.

Reddy has called on the City of Johannesburg to consider formalising recycling activities by creating designated spaces where recyclers can safely sort materials without affecting surrounding public spaces.

Moodley said the concerns raised by residents will be noted and the area will be assessed.

“Should the assessment indicate the need for further intervention, additional clean-up operations may be scheduled to address waste accumulation and protect the environmental health of the spruit and surrounding parkland,” she said.

She also encouraged residents to continue reporting pollution, illegal dumping, and environmental concerns.

Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration!