Loose tree branches pose concerns to residents

RESIDENTS of Booysens informal settlement are living in fear as two tree branches are hanging loose.

Residents say their lives are endangered because heavy rains will let these branches collapse and residents who are located closest to the tree will be affected. Residents told COURIER the Ward 124 councillor was informed about the problem, but nothing was done.

Residents want the tree removed immediately as they fear the worst. Last year, one of the residents was struck by a branch, which affected his walking. One of the residents, Marks Mhlanga, said: “If this issue isn’t resolved soon, someone might get hurt. We have children who live here. It is not safe for them.”

Another resident, who wished to remain anonymous, said, “Some people urinate on this tree leaving a bad smell, but that isn’t the main problem. We as residents are not bluffing when we say this poses a danger to us. The councillor should do something about this.”

Ward 124 councillor Mongameli Mnyameni told COURIER he knows about the loose branches and he has escalated the matter to City Parks.

“City Parks didn’t attend to the issue. I have also escalated the issue of stormwater that flows inside their shacks when it rains. Nothing has been done since, but I will keep pushing for the tree to be removed,” Mnyameni said. The COURIER is still waiting for a comment from City Parks.

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