Site C residents slam City for lack of service delivery

SHUKUSHUKUMA residents in Site C, Khayelitsha, have accused the City of collapsing service delivery in black communities.

This as residents yesterday protested against sewage spills that seep into their houses, claiming it was caused by the blockage of a nearby canal.

They allege the blockage is due to refuse not being regularly removed.

Community activist Khaya Kama said they alerted the City several times to a nearby dumping site that has caused the canal blockage.

“When it rains, the rubbish flows into that canal and it has caused this blockage. The sewage spill goes into people's homes. We have about 50 residents that have left their homes due to this because their homes are covered in filth, they can't even walk outside.

“The sad part is that it's not just in Site C, most of the areas in black communities have this very same problem, from huge potholes to sewage spills and uncollected rubbish,” said Kama.

Xolani Gwili said that last week they tried getting the City to assist them but not much was achieved.

“Residents wanted to protest and close the road but we as leaders begged them not to and told them that we would go to the City.

“We did manage to get (through to) water and waste but now the cleaning department was not of much assistance. The people are tired of living in these unhealthy conditions,” said Gwili.

The City said it is aware of the situation in Shukushukuma and is mobilising role-players to determine what can be done to address the flooding.

“It must be noted, however, that the settlement formed illegally on a stormwater detention pond which is designed to collect water when it rains.

“The City's roads are currently using pumps to empty the flooded areas. A refuse collection service is provided to Shukushukuma, as well as general cleansing. Cleansing has, however, been impacted by a vehicle shortage in recent months but is taking place,” said the City.