Backyarders build homes on railway lines
SAMORA Machel backyarders have erected shacks on the tracks of the old Philippi depot side which runs parallel to the railway station.
The zinc and wooden structures have been on the tracks since January 2. At least 20 structures are in place and some are still being built, with plots for more structures marked out using wires, strings and tape. No electricity, toilets or taps are in sight.
Sivuyile Skade, 38, said he had been renting for five years.
“Rent is challenging, we pay additional fees for electricity and water and sanitation. It’s expensive when you have to think about the little income that we have plus groceries and money for taking care of children’s school requirements,” he said.
According to residents, rent varied from R500 to R700, electricity R100 to R150 and water usage R120 a month.
“We saw that this space has not been used in years so we decided to take it. Yes, it’s dangerous with the stones and tracks still in place for, but what else can we do?
“We want places to live in and if Prasa is failing to get trains fully functioning we know there is no hope of it ever using or developing this place,” said Skade.
Metrorail regional spokesperson Riana Scott said the company was aware of the illegal housing.
“The region is aware of the illegal ingress on to the old Philippi rail depot site. It is not the first time,” she said.
Another resident Fuzile Mlomo, 46, said he was tired of being on a housing list which never materialised.
“Life is tough for us. You keep being told you are not on the database; you fill in free housing forms every year but nothing happens.
“Even our shacks are damaged from moving from one backyard to another looking for something that is more affordable. “
Phillip Zulu, 57, said he was nearing his grave and had never owned a home. “I am old and going to die soon, yet I still struggle to find a place to call home,” he said.
MEC for Human Settlement, Bonginkosi Madikizela said the choice to live on the rails was “silly and inexcusable”. “There are a number of people on the housing list and there is a backlog of over 600 000 families. Money for housing will never be enough to give free housing to all. There is a huge demand and we are building in most areas,” he said.
Madikizela said the backyarders should find a way of raising issues properly. “What they’re doing can’t be condoned.”