The Democratic Alliance (DA) in eThekwini today demands an urgent, coordinated response to stop illegal structures in parts of Durban from Human Settlements, Health, Immigration, Land Invasion and Electricity departments, alongside the South African Police Services (SAPS) and the Community Policing Forum .
This is amid worsening crisis in Overport’s Sheringham, Hope and Hill Street, where urban decay, lawlessness, and environmental hazards have spiralled out of control.
An unannounced oversight visit this week exposed overflowing sewer lines, mountains of uncollected refuse, illegal electricity connections, and the alleged unlawful scrap/recycling yard wedged between homes and an informal settlement with no water or sanitation. Criminal activity, including alleged drug trade, is thriving in full view of the authorities.
Despite repeated pleas for intervention, the municipality has failed to act. The filth returns within days, sewers remain blocked, and residents are trapped in appalling, unsafe conditions.
The time for empty promises is over. The people of Overport deserve decisive action now.