Pensioner’s health problems exacerbated by neighbour’s spray painting business

Langaville – An illegal spray painting debacle had landed a resident in hospital.
Resident Agnes Bosman (65) is at her wits’ ends as she fears for her deteriorating health.
The asthmatic pensioner has been living with the condition for years but said things took a turn for the worse when one of her neighbours started to occasionally spray paint car parts in their yard.
She was first admitted to Pholosong Hospital in January and was discharged in February. She was, however, soon admitted again.
Bosman is being monitored again at the hospital.
She alleges she has tried many times to talk to her neighbours about the matter with little success.

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“The problem started in December. I would get blocked up now and again and have difficulties breathing.
“At first, I didn’t get why my asthma was spiralling out of control like that until I went to see a doctor.
“The first doctor I went to told me I was breathing contaminated air, but I didn’t want to just take his word for it, so I went to another doctor for a second opinion.
“Unfortunately, he confirmed what the first doctor had said,” she explained.
Her X-ray report shows her left lung is swollen and shows an infection, while her right lung has developed a hole.
She said the matter has been reported to local authorities several times with no positive outcomes.
Bosman has to rely on a nebuliser and medication, which is costly, as she is unemployed and depends on a social grant.
“I spend more than R800 on the nebuliser alone. Imagine how much in total I spend for medication, as well as the money I spend on transport.
“I can’t live like this anymore. I just want them to stop this,” said Bosman.

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City of Ekurhuleni spokesperson Zweli Dlamini said they received a complaint regarding the matter from Bosman on April 6, which was investigated.
“During the investigation, the official could not find evidence of spray painting; however, the occupants of the premises indicated they occasionally conduct spray painting on the premises.
“A statutory notice was issued to the occupants to immediately cease such illegal activity in a residential area.
“Then, on April 7, a follow-up inspection was conducted and no evidence of spray painting was found.
“The complainant was also given feedback on steps taken by the City and the outcomes,” stated Dlamini.
The City stated the matter has been referred to the Department of City Planning to investigate possible illegal land use activities in a residential area and the area’s environmental health practitioner will further monitor the area.
Bosman’s neighbour declined to comment by the time of print.

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