Tuning in: Refuse collection saga continues
The roads to the landfill site are blocked by residents of the informal settlement on Farm Abrams.
Happy Father’s Day to all the dads for Sunday, June 19.
Children were asked what is a father? Some answers: “A good dad makes you feel safe”; “A good dad can protect his children from getting hurt”; “A good dad knows how to keep the bad guys away”; “A good dad always listens to mum”.
The on-going refuse collection saga is testing many community members. The roads to the landfill site are blocked by residents of the informal settlement on Farm Abrams. They are protesting for the supply of electricity which has been outstanding for the past two decades.
The Saps was called in to reopen the road, but after they left it was closed again. The Umdoni executive committee took an in-principle decision to provide electricity on a prepaid system. The implementation is dependent on the availability of resources from Eskom and subject to a council resolution to provide the necessary interim funding.
The community was advised that other options are being explored and the municipal manager is engaging sector departments and neighbouring municipalities for assistance. Political influences are also at play which are impeding keeping the road open.
For good reason, the residents no longer trust the words of the political leadership in Umdoni, and will not budge until they see progress, even if it means having to face open conflict.
Councillor Edwin Baptie advised that this issue is his top priority due to the health implications of another refuse crisis and the nasty impact it has on daily lives. He is pursuing every avenue open to get the service restored.
The municipal manager was holding an urgent meeting on Monday to attempt to resolve the issue. Residents are advised that those who missed a collection should send a complaint to shanazk@umdoni.gov.za
ALSO READ: Tuning in: It’s time to fix all that went wrong in first half of 2022
The fifth running of the PDM Umdoni Forest Trail Run will be hosted at the Umdoni Golf Club on Sunday, July 3.
Two distances are available with the 10km aimed at entry-level runners and walkers. The 20km is recommended for fitter athletes only, no walkers permitted on this route.
Terrain includes coastal forest, rocky single track, river crossings as well as a beach section. Food and beverages will be sold afterwards at the Umdoni Golf Club.
The race also includes a corporate challenge open to businesses/organisations in Umdoni. The idea being to enter a team and challenge each other to find the fittest business/organisation.
Teams consisting of a minimum of four runners/walkers (of which two must be ladies) with the four fastest times to qualify in the 10km event and teams consisting of a minimum of two runners (of which one must be a lady) with the two fastest times to qualify in the 20km event.
The winning teams will qualify for a unique trophy.
Race details: July 3 at 06:30 (20km) and 06:45 (10km).
Enter online at https://entrytickets.net/umdoniforest. Late entries will only be accepted on Saturday (2nd) between 17:30 and 19:30 at Umdoni Park Golf Club. (No late entries will be available on race day).
For more information, contact Rickey Hulley on 083 3240290.
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