Residents complain of illegal dumping causing health problems
It is also dangerous for school children since they make use of the small footpath to go home.
Despite Tshwane metro’s efforts and nearby residents making sure that an open veld turned into an illegal dumping site is cleaned, other residents continue to dump waste.
The illegal dumping site is next to Senabe pub in Mamelodi East at Phatudi Street between extension 4 and section 14.
Nearby residents said various measures have been put in place to try and stop the illegal dumping but residents continue to dump waste illegally.
ALSO READ: Illegal dumping scourge in east persists
Nico Thwala residing next to the dumping site in section 14, Mamelodi East said they have done everything in their power to stop the illegal dumping site.
He said that particular stand has been empty since 1990.
The community members in the area even tried to turn the illegal dumping site into a community park a few years ago.
However, the community park was not a success since they were told the stand belonged to someone. The project was stopped with immediate effect.
“The owners have since disappeared and people continue dumping on the stand,” said Thwala.
“We are unable to open windows to enjoy fresh air because of the flies and mosquitos. Our health is at risk because of the bad smell coming from the illegal dumping,” he said.
Thwala said residents are trapped in their own houses.
It is also dangerous for school children since they make use of the small footpath to go home.
“We are always locked inside our houses fearing for our health. Some residents have already started complaining about their lungs,” Thwala said.
He further said the whole area is covered with litter everywhere and it would take months to be cleaned.
Another concern is that a nearby school also dumps waste every week and before leaving, they will set it alight sending smoke everywhere.
ALSO READ: Tshwane warns residents against dumping
Thwala said they are pleading with Tshwane metro to make use of the empty stand by turning into a community park or to find the owner.
The residents said they are tired of the stench of dead dogs, pampers, smoke, rats and flies.
“The problem is every time they clean the place; people come and dump the rubbish again, especially at night,” said Thwala.
“We must protect our empty space and keep it clean at all times,” he said.
Thwala concluded that they have placed notice boards.
Rekord is still waiting for comment from the Tshwane metro.
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