VANDERBIJLPARK – AfriForum’s Vanderbijlpark branch has sent an urgent letter to the Emfuleni Local Municipality. In the letter, they ask the municipality to take immediate action to fix the lack of legal and accessible dumping sites and waste transfer stations in the area.

The nearest legal dumping site is about 45km outside the municipal area. This puts an unfair transport and financial burden on residents and businesses.

This lack of basic infrastructure has led to a sharp increase in illegal dumping in neighbourhoods, on public land, and along roads. This has serious effects on public health, safety, and the environment.

AfriForum has asked the municipality to create an action plan to set up legal dumping sites or waste transfer stations in the area. They also want the municipality to share specific steps to deal with the current illegal dumping problem while working on a permanent solution.

“AfriForum works to build a safe and clean environment. That’s why the organisation is willing to work with the municipality to find practical solutions to this problem,” said Stephanus Blignault, AfriForum’s district coordinator for the West Rand and Vaal Triangle.

“However, the municipality is still expected to fulfil its constitutional and legal duties,” he added.

AfriForum has given the municipality 14 days to respond and take action. If not, the organisation will consider legal steps and report the matter to the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment.