One of Shakaskraal’s largest illegal dumping sites has been shut down, paving the way for redevelopment on the previously rubbish-strewn land. However, the closure has not resolved the broader issue of illegal dumping in the area.

A site visit by the Courier on Monday confirmed that waste dumping activity has simply shifted to a new location a few kilometres away. During a 30-minute observation period, three bakkies were seen offloading rubbish while seven waste pickers sifted through the debris in search of recyclables.

Reports indicate that drivers are charged R60 per bakkie load to dump waste at the new site.

Despite the closure of the former site, small-scale burning of residual waste continues, raising concerns about air pollution and public health.

Environmental watchdog the Dolphin Coast Residents and Ratepayers Association (Docrra) has welcomed the closure as progress but warned that deeper systemic challenges remain.

“Docrra’s environmental subcommittee actively investigates illegal landfill sites, compiles data and reports to enforcement agencies. We believe our efforts were instrumental in closing one of the largest dumping sites in Shakaskraal,” said environmental subcommittee chairperson Brian Pottinger.

“But we must be realistic. The battle will not be won until there is a more efficient waste disposal system in the KwaDukuza municipal collection area. Until then, offenders will simply find new sites.”

Pottinger emphasised the environmental and health hazards of illegal dumping, including contamination of water sources, blocked drains and air pollution caused by the open burning of waste. He noted that illegal sites also hamper municipal maintenance efforts by obstructing service access.

He said community-based recycling initiatives could offer a more sustainable alternative.

“Pilot projects encouraging residents to collect and sell recyclables could provide an income stream while reducing illegal dumping,” he said.

Unlike regulated sanitary landfills which must protect the surrounding area from contaminants, illegal waste sites do not have built-in systems and lack the necessary monitoring to ensure environmental safety. Contamination of the surrounding ground water can occur because of the leachates (polluted water) which seep into an unlined site.

As an example, the New Guelderland site – the only legal landfill in KwaDukuza – has a lining which has 13 non-permeable layers.

Ward 28 councillor Doeshiee Govender did not respond to requests for comment at the time of publication.

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