Homeowner’s back space turns into an illegal dumping site

Hlobisile Nsele, an Albertsdal resident who moved into the area a decade ago, has been in numerous quarrels with those turning her home’s backspace into an illegal dump site.

For years, she had to tolerate unpleasant smells, which only get worse in the summertime as a result of illegal dumping occurring in an open veld situated outside her place.

Those from the area and individuals from outside her community have been dumping their rubble just outside her place. Not only is this an eyesore, but also a health hazard.

“We once complained and the council came out to clear this place, but it didn’t take long until they filled the space with debris again. Those renovating their homes also dump their rubble here and some residents are also going as far as dumping their dustbins in the open veld,” explained Nsele.

As a result, she said they no longer enjoy the festive season anymore as it becomes hard to spend time with family outdoors.

Nsele also said this will degrade the value of the area. She also demands a lasting solution.

EMPD spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Kelebogile Thepa, said this was the first time they received this complaint and that it will be attended to.

“On October 4, the complaint was attended to but no illegal dumping was occurring and there were no offenders found on site. The place is an open veld situated between the houses. The complainant joined officers on the day and alleged that the illegal dumping usually takes place during the night around 22:00 and 00h00,” she said.

Thepa said officers on night shift have been alerted and are monitoring the place.

She assured the Alberton Record the matter will be forwarded to the city’s solid waste department.