THE Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM) has issued a stern warning to residents and businesses to refrain from illegal dumping, following a recent incident that resulted in a R2 000 fine.
On Tuesday, August 28, a driver was fined for illegally dumping waste at Sheya Kulati Drive in New Brighton. The incident was reported to NMBM’s Public Health Directorate on August 20 by a concerned resident, who provided video footage of the illegal act. After an investigation, the driver was traced and issued a fine.
NMBM Public Health Member of the Mayoral Committee, Councillor Thsonono Buyeye, emphasised the municipality’s commitment to combating illegal dumping.
“We are issuing a stern warning and taking strong action against illegal dumpers. Our town rangers are out on a daily basis conducting work. As a Metro, we have a serious problem and we issue a lot of fines, especially in the Sheya Kulati Drive area. Our teams work with Traffic Services to investigate and trace culprits, especially the drivers. We warn all residents and businesses to refrain from illegal dumping. The Municipality does have dedicated waste disposal sites where waste can be discarded,” said Buyeye.
The fine issued to the driver includes a deadline for payment, and failure to comply by November 2024 will result in a warrant of arrest.
“Should the driver fail to make the payment or appear in court, a warrant of arrest will be issued to him. It is the constitutional right of all South Africans to live in a clean, healthy, and safe environment. Illegal dumping infringes on citizens’ rights, and it is time we, together with residents and businesses, take this matter seriously and stop this bad habit,” added Buyeye.
Earlier this year the Eastern Cape’s Health Department spokesperson, Sizwe Kupelo, also condemned the dumping of harmful and hazardous waste.
“We condemn any dumping of harmful and hazardous waste and urge communities to report such to Scorpions in Environmental Affairs,” said Kupelo.
“The general illegal dumping clearing is done per depot schedule, with a turnaround time of once per quarter. In addition to this, the Metro continues to educate residents about the dangers of illegal dumping and its consequences,” added NMBM’s spokesperson, Mamela Ndamase.
Illegal dumping poses significant environmental and health hazards. It contaminates soil and water sources, attracts pests, and creates unsightly and unsafe conditions for residents. The NMBM’s efforts to combat this issue includes regular clean-ups, strict enforcement of fines, and ongoing public education campaigns.
Residents and businesses are urged to use the municipality’s dedicated waste disposal sites and report any illegal dumping activities to the authorities.
Alternatives for disposing of waste correctly:
. Disposing of bulky waste that does not fit in refuse bags provided at the drop off site. Bulky waste bins are provided.
. The other waste that can be recycled or reused can also be disposed of safely at the nearest drop off site.
. Garden waste not exceeding one bakkie load per day is also accepted at the drop-off sites.
. The landfill sites also accept garden or green waste at no cost for loads of two tonnes or less per day.
Residents can report any transgressions of the NMBM bylaws to 041 506 2833 during working hours. Alternatively, call the toll-free number for all complaints, 0800 20 5050.
