Residents say no to antenna placement on Margaret Maytom Avenue
MTN have put in a proposal to place antenna on an existing CCTV tower on Margaret Maytom Avenue which has angered residents.
NEWS that cell phone giant, MTN intend to place an antenna on an existing CCTV tower on Margaret Maytom Avenue has angered residents who fear their health will be adversely affected.
In a statement to Northglen News, Mthokozisi Ndlovu, manager for communications and public relations for MTN said the decision to use the eThekweni Metro camera pole reduced the requirement for another cell tower to be placed in the area.
“This is an eThekweni Metro camera pole that will also have a cell antenna installed. Camera poles were developed to fulfil a CCTV function and the masts, that were added to the poles, aim to improve signal and coverage for the communities in those areas,” he explained.
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Ndlovu also allayed residents’ fears over their health or the de-valuation of property prices.
“There has been no proven evidence of either health concerns nor property devalue concerns. In fact most people want to be connected and have good experience now. MTN voluntarily complies with the guidelines set out by the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP), that are endorsed by the United Nations’ World Health Organisation (WHO), and the health and safety guidelines outlined by the Department of Health. MTN undertook to carry out an electromagnetic fields (EMF) predictive study for every antenna installed. The emissions from the antennas are 20 per cent below the ICNIRP guidelines,” he said.
While the proposal is at a public participation stage, it is understood residents within a 100 metres radius were sent registered letters informing them of the application.
The public participation process ends on 20 March confirmed acting ward councillor Shontel de Boer.
“I encourage residents who have concerns to lodge their objections before the deadline so that your voice is heard before the start of the project. The public participation for the Special Consent application began on 7 February and ends on 20 March,” she said.
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