Residents in parts of Midrand, particularly President Park and Austin View, are urged to stop using roadsides and open spaces as dumping grounds, as illegal dumping continues to escalate across the area.

Community members say the growing problem is not only making neighbourhoods unsightly; it is creating serious health, environmental, and road safety concerns.

According to Southeast Midrand Suburban Alliance (SeMSA) chairperson Francisco Panaino, illegal dumping remains a persistent challenge, with some hotspots becoming increasingly difficult to manage. Panaino said the problem is especially severe in Austin View, particularly along Keeshond Street, where a property is allegedly being used as an illegal dumping and recycling site.

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“Trucks are dumping waste there daily, leading to serious health concerns in the area, especially due to the burning of refuse.”

He added that illegal dumping is also common along Fouche Road and Kruger Road in President Park, while State Road has emerged as another problematic area, particularly after heavy rainfall.

According to Panaino, when State Road floods, some residents dump rubble, sand, and other waste into potholes in an attempt to make the road passable.

While these actions may be well-intentioned, he warned that they often worsen the condition of the road, and create additional hazards for motorists. “Loose sand, rubble, and waste on road surfaces can cause vehicles to skid, damage tyres, and increase the risk of accidents, particularly on already compromised roads.”

Beyond the immediate safety concerns, Panaino said illegal dumping is also harming the overall image and value of the neighbourhood.

In the past, many cases of illegal dumping were formally reported to Pikitup, with residents advised that enforcement falls under the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) and its by-law management processes.

Panaino said SeMSA has been working closely with JMPD to address the issue. He noted that officers have been dispatched to reported sites, although response times have, at times, been slower than residents would like.

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Illegal dumping is a criminal offence under the City of Johannesburg Waste Management By-laws, which prohibit the dumping or abandonment of waste in public spaces, open land, or on private property without authorisation.

JMPD spokesperson Superintendent Xolani Fihla stated that the department has a dedicated team within its by-law management unit focused on illegal dumping. “This team has been deployed to monitor and put a stop to illegal dumping. When offenders are caught red-handed or traced, they are issued a fine.”

Residents are encouraged to report offenders through the anti-illegal dumping WhatsApp hotline on 082 779 1361. Clear photographs of the dumped waste, the vehicle registration number, and the date, time, and location of the incident should be included when submitting a report.

The responsibility for clearing illegal dumping sites lies with Pikitup. Residents can report dumping sites through Joburg Connect on 0860 562 874 or 0860-JOBURG.

Pikitup has been approached for comment regarding the growing illegal dumping problem in the area and when affected sites may be cleared. Their response will be published once received.

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