Clairwood seeks mayor’s intervention over informal settlement saga
The Clairwood Ratepayers and Residents Association (CRRA) is calling on eThekwini Mayor Cyril Xaba to intervene to remove shack dwellers.
CLAIRWOOD residents concerned about the rapid growth of informal settlements, have called on eThekwini Mayor Cyril Xaba to intervene and halt the proliferation of the squatter camps.
The Clairwood Ratepayers and Residents Association (CRRA) said the community is frustrated over alleged illegal occupation and ongoing dumping occurring on private property.
The CRRA claims that Ward 32 councillor, Protas Mngonyama, placed the informal settlers on a vacant plot near residential properties earlier this year, allegedly assuring residents that the arrangement would be temporary.
Also read: Clairwood residents’ legal battle goes to High Court
Residents say the situation has since deteriorated with no progress made toward relocating the group. Homeowners have complained of what they describe as a surge in illegal dumping spilling onto private properties.
One resident who asked to remain anonymous said shack dwellers have repeatedly disposed of waste into his yard despite multiple requests for them to stop.
CRRA PRO Ravin Brijlal said numerous complaints submitted to Mngonyama have gone unanswered.
“Early this year, Mngonyama allocated people to the vacant space and told us they would be moved to another area. It has been more than eight months and nothing has happened.
“The shack dwellers are dumping into people’s properties. This reduces our property values because no one will buy a house in such a disgusting condition,” said Brijlal.
He said residents are dealing with daily dumping of nappies, household items and even old furniture. He claims that when the community appeals for assistance or intervention, they are ignored.
He urged Xaba to step in, saying attempts to engage the ward councillor and other local leaders have yielded no results. Ward 32 councillor Protas Mngonyama confirmed that workers from Durban Solid Waste will conduct an inspection in the area.
“The matter is receiving attention from the City. Residents are urged to remain patient as we work to find an alternative location for the shack dwellers,” Mngonyama said.
For more Southlands Sun news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok.
Subscribe to our free weekly newsletter and get news delivered straight to your inbox.
