The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality’s officially opened the revamped Kraggakamma Drop-off Site following massive work that has cost the institution more than R4.2 million.

First of its kind in the Province, the site will provide a drop-off facility for the use of surrounding communities.

This facility will form an integral component of the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality’s focus on the elimination of illegal dumping.

It will also encourage the waste separation of recyclable material. Upgrades and new initiatives include fencing, the installation of a recycling facility, signage, infrastructure improvements, security upgrades and personnel.

The site will receive residential garden refuse, bulky household waste (like furniture), and pre-sorted clean recyclable waste like paper, cardboard, plastic, glass, metal and cans.

Reclaiming the title of cleanest city

Speaking at the official launch, Public Health Mayoral Committee Chairperson Councillor Joy Seale said that the opening of the site was only one initiative in the Municipality’s comprehensive campaign against illegal dumping.

“We have made a commitment that we are going to clean the city. We have said that we want to reclaim our rightful place as one of the cleanest cities in the country. The work that has been done here is confirming our commitment. From here we will spread across the city, with more focus on the township drop-off sites,” said Seale.

This waste drop-off site is in fact the first such site in the Eastern Cape to be registered as a drop-off site with the Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism (DEDEAT) in terms of recent legislation.

Councillor Seale has called on the residents serviced by the Kraggakamma Drop off Site to cooperate with officials on site and adhere to the rules and regulations.

She emphasised that not all waste may be dropped off at the Kraggakamma Drop-off Site.

“For the site to achieve its maximum potential, we need the people to work with us,” added Seale.

The site will be open seven days a week, except for December 25. Operating hours are from 07h30 to 17h00.