Business owners slam ongoing sanitation problems in Stillwell Street

Business owners operating along Stillwell Street in Komani say ongoing dumping, littering, and sanitation problems in the area are creating growing concerns for customers, pedestrians, and nearby properties.

The complaints come amid claims that pavements and public spaces in the area are increasingly being affected by rubbish accumulation, dumped tyres, oil spills allegedly linked to vehicle repair activities, and poor hygiene conditions.

According to business owners, the situation has become a persistent problem, with litter scattered along sidewalks and open areas near shops and church property. Some have also raised concerns about alleged public urination and defecation taking place near businesses.

Owners in the area say the conditions are negatively affecting the appearance of the street and creating an unpleasant environment for people working and visiting the area daily.

Several business owners claim they have become frustrated by what they describe as recurring cleanliness issues and a lack of visible enforcement action.

Questions have also been raised about how frequently refuse removal and street cleaning services are conducted in the area, as well as whether any bylaw enforcement operations have been carried out regarding dumping and sanitation-related violations.

Komani News sent questions to Enoch Mgijima Local Municipality requesting comment on whether the municipality is aware of the complaints raised by businesses in Stillwell Street, how often cleaning services are conducted, whether any enforcement action has been taken, and whether there are plans to improve cleanliness and monitoring in the area.

No response had been received by the time of publication.

The complaints come as concerns around waste management, illegal dumping, and deteriorating public spaces continue to surface in different parts of Komani, with residents and businesses increasingly calling for stronger enforcement and improved municipal upkeep.

Business owners say cleaner public spaces are important not only for health and safety reasons, but also for supporting local economic activity and creating a better environment for customers and visitors.