Mbombela Local Municipality (MLM) has taken a number of positive steps to beautify the city, but one view-point attraction is apparently not getting much attention in the way of upkeep.
The dodecahedron reservoir in Steiltes is a beautiful spot. From the viewing deck around a large portion of Mbombela is visible.
However, it has fallen into a state of disrepair.
Not only are the grass unkempt, the access road is so riddled with potholes it is almost inaccessible by car.
Trash is visible everywhere. Cigarette packets, empty wine boxes and a myriad of broken beer bottles – even empty water bottles and takeaway packaging – litter the rocks below the viewpoint.
One regular visitor says it is clear that some of the trash has been there for a long time, while at other times it seems to get less. It is not clear what MLM plans to do about it.
There are security officers on the site, but it unclear whether someone is on duty 24 hours a day.
Apparently one of the two trash cans on the site was also recently stolen, adding to the dismal situation.
“Why people who make merry there are allowed onto the fenced-off rocks is another question: if they are, why not clean up after them?” a resident asked.
The rocks are covered in fine, broken glass that glitters in the sun.
At the time of going to print, MLM had not answered question concerning the dodecahedron area or how it is cleaned, protected and maintained.
- Read more: Time to clean up the suburbs
