Hazardous conditions in residential area
Residents at Meadowlands Hostel live in conditions that are inhumane.
Home to hundreds of people, Meadowlands Hostel is a ticking time-bomb for residents.
Part of the 27 public hostels owned by the City of Joburg, the hostel’s conditions are a hazard to residents due to insufficient waste management
and sanitation systems.
Approximately 150 residents use two or three communal toilets located in each street.
Other parts of the hostel consist of upgraded two-room units with an indoor toilet.
The children’s health is at risk as they play next to contaminated water, sewage and dangerous waste.
The residents recently attempted to clean their environment together with Councillor Sphiwe Mbongo, PikItUp and Department of Environmental Affairs.
Community leader, Mvunyelwa Majola said visits by government officials and local councillors give them hope that they’re living conditions will improve soon.
“It makes me happy to see residents participating in the cleaning campaign. It’s good for us to take initiative in changing the community. Such efforts will particularly benefit our children’s health.” said Majola.
Metres away from the hostel are flats intended for hostel residents but remain vacant as residents apparently refuse to pay the monthly rent recommended by government.
Further action has not been communicated after residents vandalised the property.
