VEREENIGING – The illegal dumping site outside Redan has been a persistent problem for the community for years, and despite previous reports and promises from local authorities, the situation remains unresolved.

Residents continue to express frustration over health risks, including breathing difficulties caused by the repeated burning of waste at the site.

Community members on a local WhatsApp group have raised questions about progress, asking whether any effective solutions or clean-up plans have been implemented.

Some have expressed disappointment at the lack of visible action, saying it feels like nothing is being done.

Cllr Salome Janse van Rensburg of the Midvaal Local Municipality provided an update on the group, highlighting ongoing efforts:

• Gauteng Province visited the site and documented conditions with photos.
• The Province will provide trucks to assist with the clean-up.
• Meetings with the Mayor of Midvaal, Peter Teixeira, and other stakeholders are planned to develop a clean-up plan.
• Local businesses have volunteered to assist.
• Engagements with Klipdraai Caravan Park and ELM are being pursued to prevent further dumping.
• Midvaal will also provide truck support, despite the area falling outside its direct jurisdiction.

“We will have to start these engagements next year. It’s not that we are not doing anything. It’s the logistics. But I am in constant talks with the MMC,” Janse van Rensburg said.

While the municipality emphasises ongoing coordination, residents say the delays are causing real health and environmental consequences.

The continued burning of dumped waste has left many in the community struggling to breathe and frustrated with the slow progress toward a solution.