JOHANNESBURG SOUTH – Natalie Maartens, who lives with her children, was tired of reporting things and not seeing anything being done. She decided to invite the COURIER to come and witness what could be the worst living conditions in South Hills.
The 27-year-old mother lives in a flat that pumps no fresh air to the lungs of a human being as the roof leaked water even after men came to close the leak spots.
There are no working geysers in the apartment, the toilet would make a man with a stomach ache run for the hills. Nothing seemed to be in good working condition in her flat. Compared to her neighbours, one would think she lives in a different flat.
After showing the COURIER that she doesn’t even have an electricity meter, Natalie said she spent the last 13 years in the flat without electricity.
All these problems were reported but she could not take any more as other people continued with their lives and it was as if she was stuck somewhere where no helping hand could reach.
And just when you think that is the worst, Natalie produced an account statement showing she owed the city more than R43 000 in 2012, something that demoralises her, because she produced another statement showing she owed just more than R25 000 in 2011.
She said what is more of a concern to her is that she has not had power in her flat for a while, but the amount just grew.
However, Communications Officers Sydney Mphahle, who has helped people with such problems before, said the matter will be investigated and something will be done to help Natalie in the situation.
DA Ward Councillor Faeeza Chame acted swiftly to help Natalie after receiving the news, as Natalie did not know who the councillor of the ward was.
“When I went to report this matter, I found that the flat was on the list for a revamp. In fact, Mr. Kelvin Smith, who is the Area Manager, acknowledged this problem and submitted the complaints about three months ago.
“As councillor I am really disappointed that nothing was done to help Natalie, because the Area Manager submitted the complaint. People cannot live like that,” said Chame.
Executive Director of housing Thabo Maiasela was reached at a short notice, but he made it clear that they will investigate this unacceptable situation before they provide a statement.
People of Ward 57 are encouraged to contact Faeeza Chame at 082 518 4375 about concerns in the ward.
My heart goes out to her and really hope that she gets what’s owing to her. To live 13 years without electricity, its terrible….