The illegal street mechanics are back
A raid was executed by the City of uMhlathuze targeting illegal street mechanic hotspots
RESIDENTS have raised renewed concerns about illegal street mechanics continuing to operate within the Empangeni area.
This comes after a raid was executed by the City of uMhlathuze earlier this year targeting illegal street mechanic hotspots where tools were removed and fines issued.
But despite municipal intervention, residents say the street mechanics are back in business and on the road again.
One of the main spots for the illegal operators is the Gateway Building in the Empangeni CBD.
‘The City has just re-evaluated properties and increased the value, which in turn results in higher rates and taxes. But what do the ratepayers get in return when the City does not have the will or commitment to actually stand their ground and enforce their own by-laws. Is it acceptable that the municipal area actually degrades the surrounding area?’ asked administrator of Gateway Building, Gavin Fordham.
‘The perpetual oil on the roads causes a deterioration of the road, resulting in potholes,’ said Manager of the Urban Road and Rail Sidings, Andre Schutte.
However, some residents are not entirely in agreement with the complaints.
‘The street mechanics are only making an honest living. They are not using taxpayers’ water or electricity. Shutting them down could lead to an increase in crime,’ added another Empangeni resident.
uMhlathuze Ward 23 Councillor Andre de Lange said it was imperative that an alternative place location was found for the street mechanics.
‘The municipality is working on the matter to allocate a safe and correct environment for them to operate in,’ explained De Lange.
