Public meeting over cell masts

Ward 126 Councillor Mike Tonkin called for a public meeting regarding MTN cell masts at Cornelius Bridge on 13 November.

The meeting was called to discuss the ever-growing grumble of residents over the issues surrounding the erections of cell masts and the ongoing plan to build more around their area.

Tonkin contacted other cellular services to attend the meeting but only Billy Botha of MTN and Jose Eduardo Garrido Antunes of Ericson attended.

In conjunction with MTN and Ericson, Johanessburg Roads Agency (JRA) representatives were present as well as community members and RA chairpersons.

Botha explained how City Power gave MTN and other cellular services a tender to create an

income-generating project.

Botha’s task was to communicate to residents, notify and aid in feedback to the communities affected.

Residents complained about the size of the masts server boxes.

One in particular is situated on the corner of Rooitou and Cornelius streets. They stressed that the large box and pole are obstructing the view of oncoming traffic. A resident for over 25 years stated that the corner was never prone to accidents and, as of late, two major accidents have occurred on the corner.

Other complaints were that of noise pollution, security; where the box acts as a platform to view into a property, as well as radiation. Botha said, “From the beginning of the project we have experienced some issues and are in the process of addressing them.”

Antunes, project manager for Ericson, partnered with MTN said, “We follow strict rules of the country by approaching JRA who then approves the positioning of the boxes. Therefore, in order to move the boxes we will have to address them.”

He added that people are often misinformed about the quantity of radiation caused by the cell masts. He claimed that the masts are well over 750 per cent below the required limit set by the government. He further argued that cell masts all over countries in Europe are at the same level and “if those countries do not object to the quantity of radiation, then our country should feel assured that it is safe.”

Botha said that they personally ensure that the residents in close vicinity of the mast are informed and have sufficient time to send their objections. Residents further expressed their woes that they were not notified properly due to postal issues. Botha assured that physical information will and has been given to residents personally as well as A3-sized notifications on road sides.

Tonkin thanked the residents and the representatives for their time. “I hope this meeting has helped address many of the issues the community is facing regarding the cell masts.”

Details: Ward 126 Councillor Mike Tonkin, michaelj@global.co.za or 082 564 0160.

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Residents upset over street cell mast

UPDATE: MTN says no yes about cell mast