New beginnings for Seatides informal settlement

For the first time, occupants of the Seasides informal settlement will have what most take for granted, toilets and showers with running water.

The informal area at the beginning of Genazzano Road is home to 70 shacks.

Until now they have relied on poorly maintained temporary toilets that did not flush and showered at Casuarina Beach.

But in two weeks time their struggle will come to an end as Ethekwini municipality has almost completed the five month construction project.

The toilets and showers will have a cleaner everyday who will stay on the premises for nine hours. The toilets will be open from four in the morning to 9 pm.

Municipal spokesperson Mageu Dlomo said they are putting nine containers on the site.

“Previously people were crossing the road to Casuarina Beach to take a shower. This was causing accidents and kids lost their lives on the busy road.”

He said the facilities are made from plastic to prevent theft.

Although the recipients are happy about the new facilities, some still don’t think that it is enough.

“We spoke about needing toilets and showers and we are happy that it is here. But when we spoke about it, we said that we wanted it in houses. There is no point of having all of this and living in these conditions,” said resident Nosipho Shengani.

Ward 59 councilor, Mxolisi Kenneth said the living conditions were temporary.

“We have connected electricity to the rural area in La Mercy and we will soon do the same in Seatides. There is land in La Mercy that is government owned. We are in the process of acquiring that land and building homes there. For now we intend on making the people as comfortable as possible,” said Kenneth.

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