LIMPOPO – The Makhado Municipality has shut down an illegal recycling plant in Anderson Street in Louis Trichardt, operated by a local pastor, describing it as a serious hazard to public health and the dignity of the neighbourhood.

Municipal spokesperson Mpho Rathando, said the action was about more than closing one unlawful site. “This was about restoring order, protecting residents, and warning others that if you break the law, there will be consequences,” he stressed.

The plant, which residents say had turned their once-quiet suburb into a dumping ground, operated in direct contravention of municipal by-laws. The operator had never applied for rezoning which is an impossible request given the property’s residential status.

Residents reported snakes emerging from waste piles, overpowering odours and a perceived drop in property values as the situation worsened.

Speaking of the seriousness of the matter, municipal manager Kent Nemaname and his senior management team personally visited the site during the shutdown to ensure swift enforcement and to “lead from the front”.

The municipality has issued a fine of close to R733 709 to the operator of 65 Anderson Street, making it clear that lawlessness will not be tolerated. For long-suffering residents, the closure comes as a long-awaited breath of relief.