By Rorisang Modiba
- Tshwane’s Mayoral Sub-committee is meeting landowners of 17 illegal settlements to find solutions for poor services and unsafe housing.
- The City demolished 65 illegal structures in Mabopane used as drug dens and informal shops, arresting 17 people during the clean-up.
The City of Tshwane is taking tough action against illegal townships and unsafe structures.
From Thursday, 23 October, the City’s Mayoral Sub-committee on Illegal Townships will meet landowners of 17 illegal settlements. These areas were built without approval or basic services such as water, electricity and roads.
Public hearings will begin on 1 November. Residents will be able to share their concerns and ideas on how to fix the problem.
The sub-committee, led by MMC for Human Settlements Aaron Maluleka, was set up to study and support communities living in illegal townships. Many of these areas face overcrowding, poor sanitation and a lack of services, putting pressure on the city’s infrastructure.
Maluleka said the talks are a first step to finding long-term solutions. The City is asking landowners to take part and help find constructive ways forward.
Earlier this month, the City demolished 65 illegal structures along the M17 Road in Mabopane as part of a clean-up campaign.
Some of the buildings were used as drug dens, while others operated as informal hair salons and food stalls.
The operation, led by Maluleka and Executive Mayor Dr Nasiphi Moya, was supported by Tshwane Metro Police. Police arrested two people for drug possession and 15 undocumented immigrants.
Maluleka said the City will help small business owners affected by the demolitions find safer and legal trading spaces.
Pictured above: City of Tshwane officials.
Image source: Supplied
