Birchleigh resident concerned about ditch near his property

Birchleigh resident Peet Theron is pleading with the City of Ekurhuleni (CoE) to clean a ditch near his property to avoid stormwater pipes getting blocked.

Theron said the ditch has become a dumping site and a hideout for criminals.

“I have been a Kempton Park resident for 37 years and am concerned about activities outside my property.

“Should the stormwater drain get blocked, it will cause big problems on my property.”

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“I urge the CoE to please clean the ditch regularly.

“Contractors need to mow the grass on the pavement alongside Elgin Road to stop rodents from breeding,” said Theron.

Ward Clr Amanda Davison said she was aware of the complaint and had escalated it to the relevant departments, but she had not received a response.

Davison said the Environment and Waste Department must conduct service point audits to ensure all residents have wheelie bins.

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“Some waste removal contractors are not always paid on time and the transfer stations are not always open.

“There are delays at the CoE landfill sites; only three out of the five are operational because of supply chain management and contractor issues,” said Davison.

“The department must also conduct information sessions and education on climate change and how illegal dumping affects our natural resources. Information and education are empowering.”

According to Davison, the EMPD also does not have enough resources to man the dumping hot spots.

Davison said the clean-up project has different costs related, whereby the finance and environment waste management departments could provide accurate figures.

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The Kempton Express sent an enquiry to the CoE on April 16, requesting comment by April 19.

At the time of going to print, we received no comment.