The Merebank community gathered at a local hall to oppose the construction of a plant in their residential area.
Image: Willem Phungula
MEREBANK residents have united to legally challenge the construction of a potentially hazardous bitumen plant in their community, citing health concerns and lack of transparency from authorities.
In a meeting on Monday, organised by the Merewest Community Foundation (MCF), a civil group fighting for the interests of Merebank residents, unanimously took a decision to oppose the presence of Energex’s chemical plant in the area.
At the meeting, the residents formally appointed Advocate Kuben Samie to prepare for their application to challenge the company’s operations in the area.
Merebank Community Foundation Chairperson Premilla Deonath addressing the meeting about the dangers of a bitumen plant.
Image: Willem Phungula
Addressing the meeting, MCF Chairperson Premilla Deonath said that after learning about the advertisement, which called for public comments, the foundation undertook to seek more information about the proposed plant and discovered that the company intended to build a bitumen plant, which is a distilled crude oil used in road construction and building projects.
Deonath said that in further research, the foundation found that the product is toxic and causes respiratory illnesses, including lung cancer.
“It is based on these findings that we have decided to alert our community about the proposed plant and decided to call a meeting so that we get a mandate from the community on what to do. The meeting has unanimously agreed and directed us to legally challenge the intended operation to save the lives of the Merebank residents,” said Deonath.
At the meeting, the residents expressed their disappointment at the lack of transparency and proper consultation about a decision that will affect their lives and health.
They said there was no public meeting where the community was called to be consulted and give their views on the proposal, except for an advertisement.
The call for comments advertisement closed on Tuesday. The residents also raised their concerns about the absence of representatives from both the municipality and the company, despite being invited.
“We respectfully but firmly demand that this proposed bitumen plant be relocated to a suitable industrial area, far from homes, schools, and community spaces. This is not just about any plant. This is about whether our community remains a place where people can breathe safely… or becomes a place where health is slowly sacrificed for profits,” said Deonath.
The meeting was attended by the DA provincial legislature member, Hannah Lidgett, who represents the party in the Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs Portfolio Committee. She promised to raise the community’s concerns with the department and find out whether the environmental impact assessment certificate has been issued.
Also in attendance was the DA eThekwini councillor, Sithembiso Ngema, who also promised to take the matter up with the relevant authorities in the municipality.
Energex’s Project Manager, Tony Hayman said the company has noted the community’s objection regarding the proposed bitumen storage application at the above-mentioned premises and promised to call a stakeholders’ meeting to hear the community's concerns.
“We value your input and understand that the health, safety and environmental integrity of the Merebank community are of paramount importance. We have noted the primary concerns raised.
“To ensure all concerns are addressed accurately and scientifically, Energex representatives will be hosting a stakeholder clarification meeting,” said Hayman.
The municipality had yet responded to the questions sent on Tuesday.