Dumping gone, but is it forever?

ALBERTSKROON – It’s gone! The heaps and heaps left behind after illegal dumping, mostly residential building rubble, on 5th Street in Albertskroon was removed by the City of Johannesburg, much to the relief of Ward 86 councillor, Philip Kruger and residents.

Kruger’s happiness could be short-lived, however.

“My worst fear is that in a few weeks’ time the first heap will appear again,” he said. This was not the first time the City had to clear the private property. Kruger said neither the City nor he can locate the owners who bought the land a few years ago. They attempted to build a few times but left projects midway, usually right after foundations were dug.

This was not the first time the City had to clear the private property. Kruger said neither the City nor he can locate the owners who bought the land a few years ago. They attempted to build a few times but left projects midway, usually right after foundations were dug.

“It is zoned for high-density development. Development, or putting up a fence around the property are the only things that will stop illegal dumping here,” he said.

Related article: Finally, 5th Street dumping to be dealt with

The City spent R250 000 on cleaning up the open space. Taxpayers’ money was spent clearing a property that does not belong to the City, nor its infrastructure and is not used by residents, barring displaced people, who find a home between the heaps.

You can also read: City warns illegal dumpers

“We will not win the fight if people don’t help by reporting illegal dumping,” Kruger said.
The fight will, however, be easier once municipal courts open. Kruger said people who break the City’s bylaws will be brought before a magistrate. The property on 5th Street, he added, will be reported as a ‘problem property’ to the courts.
Residents are encouraged to send their illegal dumping tip-offs to deputy director Zed Mangaliso by sending a WhatsApp or SMS to 082 779 1361.

All tip-offs remain anonymous.