Green project in uMhlanga tackles illegal dumping

A CLEANING and greening project spearheaded by uMhlanga resident, Praveshni Harkhu has yielded positive results in recent months.

As a trustee for the non-profit organisation (NPO), Upper Umhlanga Security Trust (UUST), Harkhu and members of the community tackle problem areas where illegal dumping has taken place.

Not only has Harkhu raised funds to drum up support for the clean-ups at various parks in upper uMhlanga, but she is also making inroads against illegal dumping.

“We’ve reclaimed many of the illegal dumping hotspots as we’ve been able to trace some of the culprits. In recent years, we’ve seen people dump building rubble, garden refuse and household rubbish on the verges, in parks or in overgrown bushes.

Related article: uMhlanga security trust tackles illegal dumping with clean-up

“The UUST team and I have tackled the parks on Kingston Place, Mendoza Drive, Broadwood Drive and Milkwood/Cordia Crescent Park to name a few. Seeing the impact we’ve made, there is definitely a more positive feeling about the environment we are living in now. Through our cleaning and greening initiative, we’ve also been fortunate to foster a stronger relationship with the municipality’s Parks Department,” she enthused.

Harkhu also touched on a special project on Royal Palm Avenue.

“We’ve worked closely with Dream Gardens Durban, a local landscape company who have been amazing and kind in helping in the area. They’ve also come on board for a special project on Royal Palm Avenue, where we intend to convert the dirty welcome wall into Umhlanga Ridge. The lettering has been stolen over the years and the wall is discoloured and unsightly.

“Our plan is to plant jasmine, which will eventually grow to the wall height making it easier to maintain and beautifying the spot. The landscape company will continue to maintain the area. We also plan to install a beautiful stone walk pathway, especially for pedestrians and workers in the area. Through our fundraising initiatives we’ve also had plants, compost and gardeners help donated to UUST and they have borne fruit,” she said.