Homeless population is a growing concern in GMM

Openly visible to residents, visitors, and surrounding businesses, the ever-growing population of homeless people is getting more and more by the day in the Govan Mbeki Municipality and raises concerns among the local community.

The Ridge Times reported on several occasions last year on GMM law enforcement’s efforts to the homeless only for those who have been removed, to return the next day.

Residents and businesses in Trichardt are becoming more concerned with the influx of homeless people in the town.

A resident raised concerns over a homeless man who has erected his shelter on the corner of Ruth First and Van Belkum streets.

“The man is aggressive and brings more and more stuff. He digs into everyone’s black bags, and what he doesn’t use, he burns out there,” said the resident.

The concern of the resident is that it is not only an eyesore, but the man who burns the rubbish is in direct danger as his shelter is a mere 200m from the Shell petrol station.

Local businesses are also at their wits’ end with the homeless sleeping in front of businesses and then leaving the areas in a mess, along with the stench of urine and faeces.

“It is an eyesore for our business. Early mornings to get through our business doors is a problem. We have people sleeping in front of our doors,” said a concerned employee.

She said their customers are exposed to the stench and sight of excrement at the back of their premises. Clark van der Walt, chairman of Trichardt CPF, is aware of complaints about the homeless digging in rubbish bins and making a mess.

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“The director of community services and local councillors are aware of the situation and the problems we have,” said Van der Walt.

He said a recent meeting was held with the CPF executive team where they discussed the matter and also informed the local police.

“This is a problem throughout GMM and the municipality is trying to resolve the problem and promised to alleviate the problem,” said Van der Walt.

He highlighted some bylaws prevented people from loitering and used the example of a man and woman who frequent the 4-way stop at Rapportryer and Grey streets.

“The community needs to help by not giving money to these people. I know it is hard to say, but if you keep giving to these people, they will remain where they are,” said Van der Walt.

He explained although his heart goes out to the homeless, once their habits are fed daily, they will not move because they know where to get money.

“I am appealing to the community to stop giving money and aiding the people with their habits. It is the only way we can get rid of this problem.

“If you continue to support them, they are going to stay where they are and this becomes a problem for the rest of the community,” said Van der Walt.