Durban — The Msunduzi Municipality has warned by-law violators sternly after a man was recorded illegally dumping in the municipality.
However, this has been met with mixed reactions from Msunduzi residents.
In a 39-second video clip, a man is seen opening the back of his vehicle, removing six black refuse bags and leaving them on the side of the road before getting into his vehicle and driving away.
“Msunduzi Municipality strongly condemns the reckless and irresponsible actions of individuals who continue to dump waste illegally. The camera footage captured one such offender. Acts like these undermine our collective efforts to maintain a clean, safe and healthy environment for all residents,” said Msunduzi Municipality spokesperson Ntobeko Mkhize.
Mkhize said illegal dumping is not only an eyesore but also a criminal offence that directly violates municipal by-laws. Such actions lead to environmental degradation, health hazards and increased costs for waste removal—resources that could be used to improve other essential services.
“Our law enforcement teams are actively pursuing this case and will ensure that this individual, along with others who disregard the law, face the full force of justice. Let this serve as a warning: illegal dumping will not be tolerated in Msunduzi,” Mkhize said.
She said the municipality continues urging all residents and businesses to practise safe and responsible waste management by using designated dumping sites and waste collection services.
“Together, we can ensure a cleaner, greener city for future generations,” Mkhize said.
“If you witness any illegal dumping, report it immediately to our Emergency Control Centre: 0800 033 911.
“By working together, we can expose and eliminate these destructive practices,” Mkhize added.
This is how Msunduzi residents reacted:
Ngcebo Ngubane said: “But you don’t pick up dirt we pay for rates but we don’t receive the services we are paying for. What are we supposed to do with the dirt if your trucks never come to pick it up? You must tell us who we call when your workers don’t pick up waste.”
Nhlanhla Hlongwane said: “We hope you will resolve the issue of trucks that sometimes don’t come to collect the rubbish without notifying the community.”
Deshnee Naicker Singh said: “It’s not Msunduzi Municipality - City of Choice cracks down on illegal dumping but rather residents ensuring their areas are kept free of such nonsense. Do something about this and we will say you guys cracked down on it. Mkondeni is strewn in filth, especially on CB Downes Road.”
Renee Veenstra said: “A little annoying since some of us are spending our own time and resources trying to assist in getting the city clean (KPCA GROUP - Keep PMB Clean Action Group), then you have someone like this… from now I’ll be checking every black Fortuner driver for a pink shirt.”
Helga Barnard said: “I cannot believe some people justify this because the municipality is not doing its job. Come on, really! Two wrongs don't make a right! Catch him and fine him. For goodness sake. Imagine we all did this.”
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