Health at risk amid eSikhaleni illegal dumping crisis

Illegal dumping and irregular waste collection in eSikhaleni raise serious health and environmental concerns, experts warn.

27 minutes ago

Mbuso Kunene 1 minute read

There are urgent calls to deal with illegal dumping across eSikhaleni Photo: Mbuso Kunene

ILLEGAL dumping continues unabated in parts of eSikhaleni, with the issue potentially adversely impacting the health and well-being of residents.

This is according to an expert who has warned of the spread of infection amid the inappropriate disposal of waste resulting from irregular municipal collection.

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Richards Bay Clean Air Association (RBCAA) communications officer Sandy Camminga said uncollected domestic waste can have serious impacts on community health and the environment.

Camminga argues that illegal dumping as a result of irregular collection of domestic waste attracts insects and rodents such as rats, flies and cockroaches, that can carry and spread diseases.

Residents have resorted to burning uncollected waste in eSikhaleni, mainly damaging the municipal skips
Photos Mbuso Kunene

“The burning of domestic waste releases toxic chemicals which contain fine particulates. In addition to causing upper respiratory health issues, the fine airborne particulates can go deep into the lungs and enter the blood stream. Rotting waste also results in toxic leachate seeping into the ground and storm water,” said Camminga.

Camminga emphasised that the illegal dumping in public areas was a human health hazard and needs to be addressed by the municipality as a matter of urgency.

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Speaking on this matter to the Zululand Observer last year, Nkosinathi Xulu, a lecturer in the Unizulu Geography and Environmental Sciences department noted that the effects and impact of improper waste management were broad, including physical and mental health effects for people, and air and water pollution.

Xulu further said this situation does not only affect the well-being of residents, but also dents the economic aspect of the city in terms of investor confidence and township tourism.

The City of uMhlathuze was contacted for comment but none was forthcoming at the time of going to print.