eThekwini Municipality have promised to implement a coordinated plan of action to deal with illegal dumping after officials conducted an inspection at Cato Manor.
The vacant site, located at 1 Dennis Shepstone Road, Cato Manor, Durban, has been illegally used by residents and businesses to dispose of waste.
Heaps of rubbish include construction rubble, plastic and paper, said eThekwini communication spokesperson, Gugu Sisilana.
“This has raised concerns related to the heath impact of residents as well as the impact on the environment,” she said.
“The site inspection follows the Department of Economic Development, Tourism, and Environmental Affairs notice of intention to take action under Section 28(4) of the National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act 107 of 1998) (NEMA). This notice highlights the unauthorised disposal of various waste streams on municipal land, causing significant environmental degradation and pollution.”
She added that the city takes the concerns raised about the dump site seriously after receiving information regarding toxic smoke and fumes emanating from waste heaps. The City will follow the proper channels to deal with the matter effectively, Ms Sisilana said.
Illegal dumping continues to pose a huge challenge in the city. This act normally stems from businesses and residents, and it hinders the objectives of the City to maintain a clean and safe environment.
“The City calls on communities, schools, and businesses to clean-up areas where they work, live and play by disposing of their litter properly. The ill-conceived notion that littering creates employment is baseless as such irresponsible behaviour degrades public areas and may lead to health complications,” said Ms Sisilana.
Ongoing efforts are being implemented in collaboration with various municipal departments to monitor the illegal dump sites to prevent further dumping.
The City plans to obtain an interdict to prohibit any further disposal on the site. Other interventions to be rolled-out by the City includes a public education campaign on responsible waste disposal.
There will also be increased patrols around dumping hot spots to strengthen enforcement, Ms Sisilana added.
Community leaders and residents are urged to report illegal dumping so that offenders can be identified and fined. The city calls on residents to stand firmly against illegal dumping and to report incidents by calling 031 311 8804 or emailing [email protected]
