Open parks in Secunda are cherished destinations where residents can unwind and connect with nature. However, the recent influx of large groups of contractors and companies at the Duckpond and Vinkedam areas—where Secunda Parkrun begins—has created significant challenges. Over the past few weekends, hundreds of individuals have flocked to these locations, especially on The Day of Reconciliation. Unfortunately, this surge in visitors has led to troubling incidents of public intoxication, littering, and disorderly conduct.
The dam area at Evander, too, has seen an increase in visitors, but this has not come without consequences. Many parkgoers reportedly engage in excessive drinking, violating local bylaws that prohibit alcohol consumption in public spaces. This behaviour has turned the once serene parks into dumping grounds for litter, including empty bottles and other debris. Moreover, social media buzzes with complaints about the disruptive actions of these visitors, including the reckless use of fireworks that alarm nearby residents.
The situation has also attracted vagrants who have begun to sleep in the area, and municipal response has been minimal. As these issues escalate, the safety of the green spaces in the Govan Mbeki Municipality (GMM) has increasingly come into question.
DA Councillor Mariaan Chamberlain recently submitted a motion to the council, highlighting the need to restore the Duckpond area to its former glory. In her motion, she pointed out that under the maintenance of IKUSASA, a division of SASOL, the park was kept in pristine condition, with security personnel patrolling around the clock. This vigilance ensured compliance with regulations that prohibited drinking, fishing, motorcycles, weapons, and overnight camping in the park.
After the facility was handed over to the municipality, however, the standard of maintenance and security sharply declined. Presently, there is only one security guard tasked with monitoring the entire area, which severely hampers efforts to uphold laws and maintain order. As a result, the park has become a hotspot for drug users, vagrants, and individuals abusing alcohol, leading to a hazardous environment marked by syringes, condoms, and general disorder. Families with young children are particularly vulnerable, as these conditions put their safety and well-being at risk.
Attempts by residents to address these issues directly with offenders have often been met with indifference. Offenders have reportedly dismissed their concerns with statements such as, “We have seen the notice boards, but the law is not enforced.” Disturbingly, residents have also reported incidents of violence, including assaults with weapons, while walking or cycling within the park.
To address these pressing concerns, Councillor Chamberlain outlined a series of actions in her resolution. The community, which has taken it upon itself to manage park maintenance—including emptying refuse bins provided by generous donors and upgrading bathroom facilities—requests the following measures:
- Repair broken gate hinges to ensure the park gates close properly.
- Establish clear opening and closing hours for the park gates.
- Empower the security guard with the authority to search all vehicles entering the park, denying entry to any that contain alcohol.
- Reinforce the prohibition of public drinking and enforce this law to safeguard children.
- Remove all informal structures erected within the area.
- Prohibit overnight sleeping in the park to prevent encampments and encourage a safe, orderly environment.
These measures are vital for restoring a safe and enjoyable park experience for all residents, particularly children. The motion has been accepted unopposed by the council and referred to the Mayoral Committee for consideration. However, there are concerns that the urgency required to implement these changes may not be prioritised by the committee.
Historically, similar motions have been delayed or stalled after referral, leading to frustrations among residents. A motion submitted over two years ago concerning extreme pollution in the area remains unaddressed, despite an approved budget that was never utilised.
“We cannot allow this type of behaviour to continue,” emphasised DA Councillor Mariaan Chamberlain. “When will the municipality take action? Must we wait for a tragedy, perhaps involving a minor?”
As the situation in Secunda continues to evolve, the call for swift action grows louder. Residents and officials alike hope for meaningful change that will not only restore the parks but also ensure the safety and enjoyment of these cherished community spaces for years to come.
The recent comments regarding the state of the park following recent functions highlight a growing concern among community members about cleanliness and responsibility. Many expressed frustration over the littering and neglect that have turned what should be a welcoming area for families into a troubled, messy environment. Suggestions include holding those responsible accountable, with a strong call for the municipality to regulate alcohol use to prevent rowdy behaviour that contributes to the mess. Community volunteers are stepping up to help clean up, showing great civic spirit, but long-term solutions are essential. Increased patrols and consistent clean-up efforts could foster communal respect for the park, ensuring it remains a safe and enjoyable space for everyone.