Sydenham residents complain about City’s lack to provide adequate services
SYDENHAM – 'To live in this kind of an area is disgusting.'
Residents of Sydenham are complaining about the infestation of rats in their neighbourhood and even blame the City of Johannesburg of failing to provide adequate services.
Residents of 11th Avenue, Caries Broke and Kinfauns streets are some of the many who have told North Eastern Tribune that they are appalled by the living conditions in their suburb.
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They complain about a rat infestation due to unkempt and overgrown houses, grass that remains uncut and unhealthy environment.
Residents also complained about their councillor, David Fisher, for lacking in attending to these matters as well as Johannesburg Road Agency whose call centre, they say, is forever unreachable.
They now demand the City to enforce by-laws and ensure proper services are provided.
“We have people who keep unnecessary stuff at the back of their houses causing rats and an unhygienic environment,” said a resident who wishes to remain anonymous.
“Also, look at our surroundings? We have long grass that remains uncut right in the middle of the road. To live in this kind of an area is disgusting.”
The City has to send inspectors and visit the suburbs, and furthermore, enforce the by-laws, added a resident..
Fisher has admitted that there have been complaints where residents point out properties that are unkempt and overgrown or swimming pools that are not working and full of stagnant water.
Fisher said this can cause rats, mosquitoes and other problems and health issues but advises residents to report such.
“Where residents are aware of health issues in the neighbourhood, they should report this to Joburgconnect@joburg.org.za or 011 357 5555,” said Fisher.
“They will get a reference number. The City will send out an inspector to evaluate the problem and will issue a notice requiring the property owner to comply with the regulations and by-laws. If the problem is not corrected after a 10-day period, residents should email me with a description of the issue and the reference number and I will escalate.”
In respect of pavements, the City is encouraging residents to take pride in their pavements and to assist by maintaining them as they do their gardens.
He said in the event that there has been rubbish dumped on pavements or in parks, residents can contact Pikitup to collect.
“The City’s by-laws are comprehensive and cover all the necessary health and environmental issues,” concluded Fisher.
Details: Dave Fisher 082 822 6070.
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