The buzzing of flies and foul stench of refuse are what residents of Fernwood experienced during the festive season.
“During the festive period, I received numerous complaints regarding the condition of the bins. The matter was referred to the Acting Strategic Executive Director of Community Services, Thisha Mhlanga, who then immediately intervened. The area was cleaned and an additional bin was placed at most affected area…along the river banks off Hawthorne Street,” said Ward 3 Counsellor and Chairperson of the Portfolio Standing Committee of Development Planning and Human Settlements, Matthew Shunmugam.
Although a team was dispatched to clean the area, it was not long before more litter was discarded at the same place, polluting the air.
“Unfortunately we cannot clean up the area every time some inconsiderate persons decide to dump illegally. It is unfair on other law abiding residents who have to contend with a tarnished area, paper and nappies flying around,” said Cllr Shunmugam.
The problem of illegal dumping has prevailed in many suburbs over the years, and efforts to curb this nasty habit have failed dismally.
“As a municipality we have done our part and residents must also come to the party to report these culprits so we can penalise them,” said Mr Mhlanga.
Residents are urged not to dump litter illegally, and offenders will be prosecuted should they be caught red-handed.
“My appeal to residents is to be on the lookout for these defaulting residents and report them to the municipality. After all, they are spoiling the environment. This matter would be raised at the next executive committee meeting, especially with regards to the issue of enforcement and prosecution,” concluded Cllr Shunmugam.
