19 Mar 2024

Fire outbreaks continue to be a challenge for effective management of operations at the Old Pilane Landfill site.

Speaking during the Kgatleng District Full Council meeting, the chairperson Mr Daniel Molokwe said the latest incident occurred on February 17, and efforts to establish the cause of the fire and take appropriate action against those responsible was ongoing.

He informed the meeting that outsourcing operations and management of Old Pilane Landfill services was on course.

The chairperson said the engaged company was in the process of acquiring the necessary plant and equipment, which were expected to be delivered soon.

Mr Molokwe added that the initiative would have a significant impact on improving the livelihoods of the communities by creating job opportunities.

On health issues, the chairperson said the health department confiscated 1 349 of 5kg foodstuffs (Catch Up, Peanut Butter) from various primary schools within the district after finding high levels of aflatoxins, a public health risk substance.

He said the condemned food products were disposed off accordingly, and the supplier was duly fined for the offence.

He further said indiscriminate disposal of waste was one of the challenges threatening the environmental health status of the district.

Mr Molokwe therefore urged all community leaders, including Dikgosi, Councilors, Village Development Committee Chairpersons, and the public at large to be vigilant and report those found committing such offences to the environmental health department or the nearest police station.

He said they had intensified law enforcement in the district and two offenders had already been fined the maximum fine of P1 000.

 The chairperson said due to increased incidents of illegally dumping waste, the council continued to do litter picking along the A1 Highway Road and other major public roads.

He added that recently, they collaborated with the Tlokweng District Council to improve the aesthetic conditions of the two districts linking road (Maratadiba).

He said the joint cleaning of the bus stops was done on March 1, to raise the level of public awareness on the importance of promoting the green environment. ENDS