KNYSNA NEWS - Builders are dumping waste material on the outskirts of the Knysna Forest and on the sides of roads near the town, says a local resident.
"Almost every time you go to the forest, you find dumping there," the resident, who requested anonymity, said.
On Monday 12 August, he sent in a photograph showing packaging for building products and waste material dumped on the side of the N2 near the turnoff to Buffalo Bay.
On Tuesday, he said the municipality, "to their credit", had removed the items dumped there.
"The problem for the contractors/builders is it costs to dump it (material) at a (legal) site, and it's far to travel," he said.
'Evidence of disposal'
To curtail illegal dumping, carried out mainly by "small builders", those seeking the services of builders should insist on being provided with a disposal plan before hiring them, and once the work was completed, "ask for evidence of disposal".
Knysna's acting municipal manager, Phaahle Simon Malepeng, said: "The municipality is deeply concerned about the recent increase in illegal dumping activities, particularly in or near our forest areas.
"This unlawful behaviour not only degrades our environment but also threatens the natural beauty that makes Knysna unique.
Action plan
"Earlier today (Tuesday 13 August), we engaged with local representatives of the MTO Group, the responsible authority, to discuss this issue and to develop a mutually beneficial action plan.
"We are committed to finding effective solutions, but it is imperative that the source of the problem is addressed.
"Builders and contractors are reminded that building rubble must be disposed of at the privately operated facility at Simola. This is the only legal and responsible option.
"We urge the public to assist us in combating illegal dumping by reporting any such activities. Please contact Natalie Salmons at nsalmons@knysna.gov.za or Tel/WhatsApp 060 998 7073 / 044 302 6405.
"The municipality is equipped to trace culprits using their vehicle registration numbers, and we encourage anyone witnessing these acts to provide photographs of the perpetrators if possible.
"Knysna's environment is a shared asset, and we must all work together to protect it from those who would seek to damage it through illegal dumping."
‘We bring you the latest Garden Route, Hessequa, Karoo news’
