The CBD and surrounding residential areas are becoming an eyesore as vagrants erect makeshift shelters using tents, boxes and clotheslines along boundary walls and public spaces.

Residents and business owners have also raised concerns about people bathing in stormwater drains in full view of motorists travelling along PDP Kruger Road and pedestrians using nearby pavements.

Many believe there is an urgent need for authorities to address the growing vagrant activity in and around the CBD while also providing suitable shelter and support services for those living on the streets.

Emmarentia La Grange, whose property borders Oliver Thambo Drive opposite the Secunda Mall and the Sasol Filling Station, said she has been battling the issue for years.

According to La Grange, the problem often resurfaces after law enforcement operations remove illegal structures from the taxi rank and surrounding areas.

“Although there have been brief periods of improvement, many of the individuals simply relocate to residential boundaries after being moved from other areas,” said La Grange.

“The situation has now escalated to the point where people are camping directly against our perimeter wall and next to the main road power box.”

La Grange said fires are regularly lit against the wall, creating a serious fire hazard and causing smoke to enter their home.

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“We are also subjected to constant shouting, fighting and disturbances late into the night, leaving us feeling unsafe in our own home,” said La Grange.

“As women, we live in a constant state of anxiety and fear. We are concerned about our personal safety, the security of our home and the well-being of our pets.”

La Grange alleged that her dogs were previously poisoned, leaving the family fearful of confronting those responsible.

“Human waste is frequently left near our property, creating serious health concerns,” said La Grange.

“Our property has also suffered damage over time, requiring repairs to boundary walls and ongoing maintenance at our own expense.”

La Grange added that residents are concerned that some individuals appear to monitor their daily movements and vehicles.

“On one occasion, my husband was targeted with rocks while leaving for work,” she said.

She also highlighted problems with refuse bags being torn open and rubbish being scattered across residential properties.

“Despite numerous complaints lodged through municipal channels, social media platforms, and direct engagements with officials, little to no effective action has been taken,” said La Grange.

“Residents are frequently told that those occupying these spaces have rights, yet it feels as though the rights of law-abiding, rate-paying residents to safety, sanitation and peaceful enjoyment of their homes are being overlooked.

“We deserve a safe, clean and respectful environment in which to live. Govan Mbeki Municipality need to acknowledge the seriousness of this situation and take decisive action before conditions deteriorate further,” said La Grange.

Businesses in the area have also expressed frustration, referring to a section of the stormwater canal as a “corner laundromat” where people wash clothes and bathe in public view.

According to a local property agent, the situation creates a negative impression for prospective tenants and businesses considering office space in the area.

“It is an eyesore. It is disgusting the way they leave the canal after they have washed. They leave all their rubbish behind. It looks terrible. It’s disgusting, actually,” said the agent.

She said requests for people to remove washing from the palisades are often ignored.

“They don’t care. They keep hanging their washing and ignore you,” said the agent.

“There is a need for a shelter where they can sleep, shower and do their washing. They are also people trying to be clean in their own way. A shelter with a vegetable garden where they can grow food, keep busy and stay off the streets could help,” said the agent.

However, she added that substance abuse remains a concern.

The issue continues to spark debate among residents and business owners, many of whom are calling for a balanced solution that addresses public safety, sanitation and the welfare of vulnerable individuals living in the CBD.