Overgrown grass and scattered trash are familiar traits of any abandoned site around many communities. Residents can now report illegal dumping using JMPD’s WhatsApp line on 082 779 1361.
In 2019 the Department of Public Safety tabled a proposal to increase fines from R2 970 to R10 000 for people caught dumping refuse illegally. The R10 000 fine would apply to first-time offenders; second-time offenders could expect to part with R15 000; and third-time offenders would be hit with a hefty R20 000 fine. Illegal dumpers often make substantial amounts of money by collecting refuse, rubble and toxic waste which they then dump in parks, abandoned fields, rivers or open spaces.
The new WhatsApp line is part of the City’s efforts not only to work towards improving service delivery but to make it easier for resident to get in touch with City officials.
