Frustration is mounting in the CBD as residents and business owners say they are gatvol with the chaos.

A troubling mix of illegally parked cars, decaying buildings and informal traders blocking roads has brought the City’s by-law enforcement under intense scrutiny.

“It’s a free-for-all,” lamented one frustrated business owner, who wished to remain anonymous for fear of victimisation. “You can’t drive, you can’t park, and the streets are filthy. Our customers are staying away because it’s just too much trouble to come here.”

Residents describe a city in decline. Illegally parked vehicles routinely obstruct roads, while informal traders – though vital to the local economy – increasingly set up directly on roadways and pavements, blocking access to formal businesses. Together, these issues contribute to mounting traffic congestion, pose safety risks, and obscure the natural beauty of the city.

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The spotlight has once again fallen on the City of Mbombela’s by-law enforcement.

Many residents and business owners are openly questioning why these violations are allowed to persist. Despite repeated complaints, the situation appears to be worsening, leading to accusations of negligence and a lack of accountability from the very authorities tasked with maintaining order.

This sense of abandonment extends to further infrastructure failings.

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Several traffic lights in the CBD have been out of order for over a year, contributing to dangerous driving conditions.

This ongoing neglect, coupled with a perceived rise in criminal activity just metres from the police station, signals a worrying breakdown in urban management.

Business owners are calling for urgent action. “We pay our taxes, we employ people, and we expect a functional city in return. We need immediate intervention from the municipality to clear the roads, address the dilapidated buildings, and enforce by-laws consistently. The current situation is unsustainable and is crippling our businesses.”

The City of Mbombela’s spokesperson, Joseph Ngala, was not available for comment at the time of publishing.