Following the recent surge in the illegal dumping of medical waste in the Chatsworth area, the eThekwini Municipality has urged perpetrators to desist with the careless act.
In the most recent case of the negligent disposal of medical waste, a batch of vials were found strewn across a grassy pavement in Welbedacht East. Ward 77 councillor Anoop Rampersad, said that the illegal disposal of medical waste in a residential area is unacceptable and will not be tolerated.
He said: “It is common knowledge to almost everyone that dumping medical waste in this manner is absolutely reckless and dangerous. This batch of medical waste was found on Flete Chechwe Road within my ward and it is just extremely unacceptable.”
Municipal spokesperson Msawakhe Mayisela said that the city was aware of instances where medical waste had been found, though these incidents were not a daily occurrence. He said: “In cases such as these, the city investigates the origin of the waste. If there is sufficient evidence obtained or a sworn affidavit can be obtained from a witness who is willing to appear in court, then legal proceedings may be instituted against the perpetrator of the incident.”
According to the municipality, medical waste cannot be disposed of through the municipal waste collection system. “Therefore, medical waste must be disposed of through approved Health Care Risk Waste Service providers. We urge those who are responsible to desist from this dangerous and careless practice and dispose of their waste in the correct way,” said Mayisela. Rampersad urges any residents who witness this heinous act to come forth and have faith in the justice system for their safety.
