Don’t bless this mess
KNYSNA - Residents have been confronted with a disheartening sight as the contours of Simola have increasingly become marred by dumped illegal waste.
This problem has been noticed by different cycling groups in the area, who have also noticed an alarming increase in the amount of waste being irresponsibly discarded. The waste, predominantly consisting of building materials and domestic refuse, has become an eyesore and a cause for concern among the community.
Recognising the urgent need to address this issue and restore the natural beauty of their surroundings, residents are identifying areas prone to illegal dumping and developing ways of addressing it. The goal is to establish a sustainable solution that encourages responsible waste management practices and ensures the preservation of Knysna's natural environment. By creating awareness about these locations, they hope to encourage responsible waste disposal practices and deter further dumping in these areas.
However, the residents understand that a long-term solution requires collaboration and support from all stakeholders, including the municipality.
One of the key motivations behind this collaborative approach is the impact that illegal waste dumping has on the local cycling community. Cyclists, both residents and visitors alike, are disturbed by the presence of these unsightly dumping sites. It not only tarnishes the natural beauty of the area but also creates a negative impression, potentially affecting tourism and the overall image of Knysna.
To fully understand the scale of the issue, the residents are seeking an assessment of the extent of illegal waste dumping in the region.
Knysna-Plett Herald has reached out to Knysna Municipality for comment regarding the matter but no comment was received at the time of publication.