WATCH: Residents question Mogale City’s plans to fix failing systems
At a heated meeting in Muldersdrift, officials pledged reforms as frustrated residents cited illegal dumping, toxic rivers and failing infrastructure.
The Portfolio Committee on Environment, Agriculture and Rural Development (EARD), conducted a critical follow-up meeting with Mogale City Local Municipality (MCLM), forming part of the committee’s ongoing efforts to monitor environmental compliance and governance across Gauteng municipalities.
Chairperson for the committee, Jaco Mulder, explained that the meeting focused on environmental compliance at landfill sites and wastewater treatment works operated by MCLM and received a comprehensive report from MCLM on progress made in addressing persistent environmental challenges.
Frustrated residents thus gathered at a Muldersdrift conference centre last week to demand answers from MCLM and other stakeholders regarding ongoing environmental, waste and housing concerns.
• Luipaardsvlei Landfill Site
First on the agenda was the Luipaardsvlei Landfill Site, where MCLM’s Dominic Nyoka outlined a series of issues, including ageing infrastructure, illegal mining activity and a major fire that burned for months due to the lack of water and fire hydrants. Nyoka explained that the site was closed for safety and compliance, and MCLM has since implemented several improvements – such as fire walls, fire extinguishers, and water tankers – to prevent future disasters. The Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (GDARD) has also instructed the municipality to begin rehabilitation and enforcement actions at the site.
Elise Strydom questioned why rates and taxes should be paid when basic services are lacking. Others highlighted the spread of illegal dumping and mining into suburbs like Azaadville. Mohamed Laher of the Azaadville Ratepayers Association criticised MCLM’s failure to curb zama zama activities, contrasting it with swift municipal action against residents in arrears.
In response, Nyoka confirmed that the landfill has reached capacity, but MCLM is sourcing land for a new site. He said partnerships, including one with the African Reclaimers Association, are helping to introduce green technologies and expand recycling efforts. Weekly refuse removal continues in formal areas, while skip bins are being rolled out in informal settlements. Cases against illegal miners have also been opened with the police.
• Wastewater Treatment Works
The condition of the Percy Stewart, Flip Human and Magaliesburg Wastewater Treatment Works (WWTWs) was also addressed. MCLM’s Philani Ndlovu confirmed refurbishments are underway, with emergency and long-term plans in progress. He acknowledged that GDARD had taken compliance action and that the municipal manager faces charges related to the plants’ operations.
Although resident Jaco du Toit thanked MCLM for its efforts, he emphasised the need for a detailed project plan and long-term sustainability. Bobby Bane, who owns a local trout farm, described the devastating impact of sewage pollution on her business, pleading for proper rehabilitation before it’s too late.
Ndlovu assured attendees that the municipality aims to meet compliance standards before the financial year ends, with Mayor Lucky Sele adding that the current green and blue drop status reflects 96%.
• Housing projects
Concerns were also raised about the Brickvale and Dr Sefularo housing projects. MCLM’s Aaron Tshoko stated that both developments comply with environmental regulations. In Dr Sefularo, only treated water will be discharged into the Magalies River, while dolomitic ground in Brickvale has been demarcated to prevent unsafe construction.
Residents, however, remained wary. Christopher Bean raised the issue of a sewage pipe protruding into the river and revealed that a court case is pending in January. He called for the installation of a reticulation dam to contain overflows.
The meeting concluded with Jaco Mulder, chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Environment, Agriculture and Rural Development, stating that more engagements with MCLM are needed to resolve unanswered questions and ensure accountability.
An in-depth article is published in the August 1 edition of the Krugersdorp News.
