Vandalism and illegal dumping a scourge of town
Acts of vandalism may see the end of polemounted bins in the CBD.
With damaged bins periodically removed by the municipality, such as those on Harding Street, it remains uncertain if provision for more bins will be included in the 2019/2020 Capital Budget.
This is according to the municipality’s official response.
“Pole litter bins are damaged for a variety of reasons; some may be damaged as a result of vehicles driving into them and some are vandalised by irresponsible citizens,” read the response sent by Head of Communications Dr Dumisani Thabethe.
The condition of pole-mounted refuse bins made headlines in March of this year, when the municipality accused residents of abusing the receptacles. In the months since, the situation has not improved.
The matter of the damaged and removed bins ties into a number of illegal dumping incidents over the past few weeks, particularly in Coronation Road.
The municipality called vandalism and illegal dumping the scourge of the town.
Municipal bylaws
Municipal bylaws stipulate that no dumping, depositing, discharging, spilling or releasing of waste in any public or private space is permitted. Recommended fines range from R1,000 to R10,000.
The municipality stated it services all households in Newcastle on a weekly basis and provides residents access to a garden waste drop-off centre at the Farmers Hall.
“Illegal dumping causes environmental [degradation]. It can be a potential fire hazard, can cause health risks and pollute our waterways. It is also very costly to remedy.”
What residents can do to help
Residents can report illegal dumping to 086 014 4144 – the municipality’s Law Enforcement Section will investigate and take the necessary action.
Any and all relevant information will help stop the perpetrators.
“Illegal dumping is… caused by irresponsible citizens. There is no need to dump your waste.”
If you as a resident see someone vandalising municipal property or illegally dumping, we urge you to take a photograph (if a vehicle is involved, photograph the registration number) and send it to the Newcastle Advertiser.
Attempts will be made to hold the people accountable for their deeds.
Contact us
WhatsApp: 082 874 5550
Email: Reveshni Douglas (Editor) at reveshni@caxton.co.za
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