The area of Umbilo and Congella, known for its 24-hour business activity, is facing a huge challenge with emerging illegal panel beaters and mechanics, who are increasingly taking over the streets.
According to the Umbilo Business Association (UBA), mechanic business is booming in the area, creating traffic chaos.
“The illegal panel displays were found not to have operating licenses nor require security permits. Some of them operate in hijacked buildings. Most importantly, they operate on or along streets or sidewalks, creating an unsafe environment for road users,” says Zak Vahed, UBA executive member and business owner in the area.
Read also: City threatens to shut down illegal panel beaters
He said the mechanics pose a danger to customers and business owners in the area, as the occupied streets are forever buzzing with welding sparks. He added that car thinner and other waste is thrown into storm drains daily, creating blockages. In addition, visible oil stains and pieces of glass result in spikes and flat tires on other passing vehicles.
“These occupied streets were meant to be two-way streets, but due to the illegal occupation, only one lane is functioning on each street, creating traffic chaos.
“As UBA, we lean towards our core values, to create a safe space for entrepreneurs and surrounding communities. By doing so, we strive to get opportunities for employment within the right legal framework. For nearly 20 years, UBA has stood on the ideal of the principles of Ubuntu , therefore we support businesses in the area,” concluded Vahed.
Ward 33 Councilor Fran Kristopher admitted the issue of illegal panel beaters had been on the table.
“Regarding the panel beaters I have been brought to the attention of some residents and the CPF. I highlighted this with the Operation Good Hope programme. However, this requires an operation of its own as law enforcement along with business support and building inspections need to be involved for a planned focus to stop these illegal businesses,” she said.
EThekwini’s spokesperson, Gugu Sisilana, mentioned that the metro police had been cracking down on illegal roadside mechanics in some parts of the city, resulting in the arrests of illegal aliens.
“As part of maintaining law and order, the Metro Police will intensify law enforcement operations and multidisciplinary roadblocks throughout the city, including in areas like Umbilo. The municipal law enforcement department has been closely monitoring the proliferation of illegal mechanics operating in the city. Cleansing and Solid Waste- team is also part of these businesses, and they provide pressure washing services to remove oil and dirt on the road,” says Sisilana.
“The Metropolitan Police attended the UBA meeting last week, where the Parish Council and Umbilo SAPS were also present. Metro Police will conduct a multi-disciplinary operation through the Area Management Unit and the Inner City Law Enforcement Team. The Metropolis also conducts joint operations with the SAPS.”
Streets affected include Alan Paton, Magwaza Maphalala, Calais, Badgers, Canada, Banshee and Melbourne.
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