Over 200 calls to get illegal dumping site cleaned

Illegal dumping sites in Ikageng have become a serious health issue, with frustrated residents saying the problem has now become untenable.

Thabo Moseki, who moved to Ikageng four years ago, said one of the biggest issues in the area is pollution, particularly in Keamogetswe Street.

He says the municipality has been informed of the issue many times but they have not demonstrated any urgency in dealing with the problem.

“They don’t seem to care and it is now becoming a health hazard. Our town is messed up and we don’t get any help from local authorities,” he said angrily. “When you call the municipality, you wait on the phone for five to 10 minutes and they finally cut you off.”

“Sometimes, you’re lucky and someone picks up the line, but you only get more lies,” he added.

The concerned resident said the community has made more than 200 calls to the municipality in the past couple of years. It has also been difficult to reach the ward councillor.

“We are paying rates to live in these conditions. As ratepayers, we deserve better, at least to get the services we pay for,” he said.

Another resident, who asked to remain anonymous, said people from outside their area come and dump everything from uncooked food to garden refuse. She added that waste pickers scavenge in the area and make fires at night and in the early hours of the morning, creating another source of pollution.

“I have a rash. I’ve been to the doctor and he says it’s caused by poison or inhaling something,” she said. “We also have granddaughters who are getting sick,” she added. “It stinks when it’s hot and after it rains. It’s so bad that you can’t even leave the windows open.”

The residents are fed up and hope the issue will eventually be resolved, “even if only for future generations.”

The Herald asked the municipality for comment but had received no response by the time of going to print.