/ MEDIA STATEMENT / The content on this page is not written by Polity.org.za, but is supplied by third parties. This content does not constitute news reporting by Polity.org.za.

Following DA pressure, the ANC coalition in Emfuleni Local Municipality has finally acted and officially closed the Sonlandpark waste transfer station. This development comes as a relief, from the unhygienic and unhealthy conditions residents are subjected to, due to the neglect of addressing this pressing issue.

It is unfortunate that the residents of Sonlandpark, specifically in Ward 16 of Emfuleni Local Municipality, had to tolerate a prolonged wait for the closure of this station. The waste transfer station was regularly burning waste, causing breathing difficulties for some residents. Disturbingly, we have been informed that two residents were admitted to the hospital due to respiratory issues resulting from inhaling the smoke emitted by the burning waste.

The municipality must act urgently in addressing service delivery concerns, rather than waiting for residents to escalate matters or resort to protests.

The community of Emfuleni deserves better, and the DA will maintain daily monitoring to ensure that nothing is taken for granted and that residents receive high-quality services.

It is the mandate of local government to ensure that everyone has access to basic services, including regular refuse collection and targeted area cleaning, as needed.

The DA remains committed to working diligently and increasing the pressure on Mayor Sipho Radebe and the ANC coalition to fulfil their responsibilities in providing essential services to the residents of Emfuleni Municipality.

Issued by Cllr Tebello Mokoena - Shadow MMC Environment Management and Planning Departments