A field in Farrar Park is causing problems in the community.
Residents are complaining it is unkempt, which has resulted in a rat infestation. The property belongs to the East Rand Mine.
The Advertiser found diapers, toys and other items dumped when visiting the site.
The problem was reported to the metro, the fire department and the mine.
“We’re struggling with rats and the situation is unbearable. They’re huge and there are lots of them. My neighbours and I tried to control the situation by putting out rat poison, by ensuring our properties are clean and by taking away uneaten dog food,” said Antoinette van Zyl, a concerned resident in Farrar Park.
“However, it did not solve the problem. This plague is a health hazard to my family and pets.”
In the meantime, the field was burnt to deal with the long grass.
Residents were told the mine has decided to make this an ongoing exercise.
“It’s more manageable now, but the rats are still a problem as illegal dumping still takes place,” said Antoinette.
She added that they met with the metro on August 6.
“We were told we have two options.
“Firstly, the mine puts up another fence to keep people out or secondly, digging a trench with a soil berm to make it difficult for vehicles to get onto mine property.
“We, as a community, have two weeks to make a decision and will get together again on August 20.
“The community is also encouraged to be alert to illegal dumping. If possible, take pictures of the vehicle, registration number and the person caught in the act. People should just remain cautious as the dumpers could be dangerous,” said Antoinette.
Themba Gadebe, Ekurhuleni metro spokesperson, confirmed the field belongs to the mine.
“Therefore, they should clear it from all rubble and refuse, once that is done, the mine must take preventative steps to ensure there is no re-occurrence of illegal dumping. Long grass and weeds should be cut at all times.
“The municipality can enforce the Ekurhuleni Public Health By-laws, which enable the Council to set minimum Environmental Health Standards to regulate and monitor activities that have the potential to impact adversely on the public’s health.
“Compliance notices can be served to the owners to rectify the unsatisfactory conditions on the premises. An onsite meeting has been arranged with the mine owners and community members.”
He added that anyone found dumping illegally, will be guilty of an offence, and liable for a fine.
According to Ergo Mining spokesperson, James Duncan, in the winter months, particularly when the veld burns, rodents tend to migrate to where there is food, water and shelter – in this case, neighbouring homes.
“We have engaged with the complainants, and long grass, believed to be a contributor to the problem, has been cut. This has helped previously,” said Duncan.
“We believe, however, that illegal dumping on our property is also a contributor.
“In the past, fencing and no dumping signs have not been a deterrent. Signs are ignored and/or vandalised, and fencing stolen.
“Public vigilance and reporting of the culprits could be of great assistance to us.
“If illegal dumping is witnessed, we should be very grateful if offenders could be reported to Ekurhuleni metro on 011 458 0911.”
He added that residents may contact Ergo’s community relations manager, Louis Kleynhans, on 082 777 3413 should they continue to experience problems with rodents.
