Constant fires at the Luiperdsvlei landfill site in Krugersdorp are putting the health and safety of residents in the area at risk. Recently, a sixth fire broke out at this landfill site, and no official cause for the fire has been disclosed. Communities living nearby must contend with thick, choking smoke each time a fire breaks out.
The landfill’s outdated infrastructure and lack of proper fire prevention measures have exacerbated the situation. The environmental fallout from the burning of landfills is severe and far-reaching. These fires release a mix of toxic gases, significantly degrading air quality far beyond the landfill’s immediate vicinity. The health impacts on Mogale City residents are dire. Vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions, are particularly at risk.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) has on several occasions raised concerns about the landfill with local authorities in Mogale City, including the Executive Mayor and the MMC for the Department of Environment and Integrated Management Services. However, the situation remains unresolved.
The DA demands a thorough review of Mogale City’s waste management practices, upgrading landfill infrastructure, enforcing stricter waste disposal controls, and ensuring the correct fire prevention strategy and resources are on site.
We have informed the MEC for Environment in Gauteng, Shyla Peters, about the current situation by the DA. We have requested the Gauteng Provincial Government’s (GPG) assistance in quelling the fire and forcing the municipality into action.
The ongoing landfill fires in Mogale City are a stark reminder of the broader implications of many of Gauteng’s poorly managed landfill sites. It highlights the urgent need for systemic change in how we handle waste, not only to protect the environment but also to safeguard public health.
A DA government will immediately conduct an audit of all Gauteng municipalities waste management practices and upgrade landfill infrastructure.