Ward 32 cleans up Jukskei River
BUCCLEUCH - After numerous positive engagements and consultations with environmental entities, Ward 32 organised a clean-up at the Jukskei River in Buccleuch.
Ward 32 councillor, Bongani Nkomo said the clean-up was achieved under extremely difficult weather conditions. “This is a good start and a good response to a long-standing issue, I feel that a more effective and sustainable operation is required,” said Nkomo.
He said the problem was not cured, but merely treated. “Despite this, myself and the residents will continue to protect Buccleuch’s status every day at a time,” said Nkomo.
The Jukskei River flows from Lombardy, Alexandra and to the Johannesburg northern residential areas. Residents living close to the river have been affected by the state of the river which is polluted with litter and tree shrubs.
“Buccleuch is a very beautiful suburb, rich with fauna and flora and has a river that has the potential to complete a very scenic picture,” added Nkomo. “Unfortunately in its current state, it’s a poor advertisement and representation of Buccleuch as a community.”
Nkomo gave credit to the City of Johannesburg’s Region E team for ensuring that the clean-up initiative did take place. “I feel that a more effective and sustainable operation is required,” he added.
Nkomo believes the dire condition of the Jukskei River is due to rapid urbanisation. He explained that since informal settlements have sprung up along the river banks, many of them do not have formal sanitation services and discard sewage and refuse into the river.
