The on and off ramps to the M19 at Reservoir Hills, known as “hijack and smash and grab hotspots”, are being transformed in an attempt to curb criminal activity.
Overgrown bushes, which made it easy for criminals to make their getaway, are being cut and plans are afoot to beautify the area with flowers and trees.
Two businessmen adopted either side of the ramps. One of the men, who wanted to remain anonymous, started a clean-up of the area earlier this month. He said it had become an eyesore for the people living in Reservoir Hills and now that it was being cleaned people would feel a little safer stopping there at night.
“By doing this I aim to restore the area. The municipality doesn’t do much and is investing more in uMhlanga and other affluent areas.” Krinesh Ramadu of Varsity Drive, Reservoir Hills said he was happy about the project as residents feared for their safety. “Apart from that it is also nice to see the bushes and litter getting cleaned out.” Kresan Moodley of Reservoir Hills said it was unfortunate that a resident had to use his money for the clean-up. “Once again it has come down to a resident investing his hard-earned money for the benefit of the community while those responsible just waste taxpayer’s money.”
Ron Naidoo, a community activist said cleaning and maintaining the area would decrease criminal activity. “We will try to maintain it and stop anyone trying to build any form of housing.”
She said the area was known for a number of hijackings. “Many people have been hijacked. Even I was robbed. They took my belongings and ran into the overgrown bushes which is now being cut.”
EThekwini Municipality Spokesperson, Msawakhe Mayisela said that the road is maintained by province. “The project of maintaining the M19 entrance and exit off ramps to Reservoir Hills, is championed by Mrs Ron Naidoo of Reservoir Hills. However, for designing and beautification of these ‘open spaces’, they have approached the City to take part in designing, getting plants and beautifying the open space, in collaboration with the community and the businessmen. A City horticulturist will be involved in assisting the residents.”
