The eThekwini Municipality has intensified efforts to restore public areas in central Durban by conducting weekly multi-disciplinary operations aimed at removing illegal structures, combating unauthorized dumpsites, and preventing the misuse of open spaces.
The latest operation took place in King DinuZulu Park from August 19 to 21. As part of this campaign, a team of specialists dismantled illegal constructions, cleared debris, pruned trees to improve visibility, and conducted fumigation. The park was returned for public use after residents and business representatives raised concerns about safety.
This intervention followed similar work carried out in the The Workshop area from August 12 to 14. There, teams focused on eliminating illegal dumps, clearing drainage systems, trimming vegetation, and cleaning adjacent streets.
According to municipal representatives, the goal of these weekly activities is to ensure continuous maintenance of public places, rather than limiting themselves to one-off cleanups. Linda Mbonnambi, Director of Supply-Side and Area Operations, emphasized that neglected open spaces can negatively affect neighboring businesses.
eThekwini Municipality is strengthening its weekly inspections in central Durban, focusing on illegal buildings, waste dumping, and the improper use of public areas, with King DinuZulu Park being the latest site of a large-scale sanitation and safety operation.
Mbonnambi noted that 'neglected open spaces are subject to intrusion, and subsequent violations spread to surrounding businesses—in some cases to the extent that these businesses cannot trade. Restoring these spaces is not only about cleanliness and safety but also about protecting economic activity and rebuilding business confidence.'
The Director added that the municipality intends to continue working to prevent the misuse of public areas. She stated: 'We aim to restore these spaces for their proper use. This is part of a broader goal of ensuring the restoration of a culture of preservation in the city center and attracting investment.'
The Municipality also announced that it will collaborate with area residents and property owners to coordinate safety, cleanliness, and infrastructure maintenance issues to protect property values and prevent urban decay. Weekly operations will continue and are expected to expand to other public areas in central Durban as the municipality works towards creating a cleaner, safer, and more livable environment.