Zakariya Park Residents Protest Over Unauthorized Informal Settlement

Unapproved settlement sparks anger and fear

Residents of Zakariya Park, a quiet suburb south of Johannesburg, are raising alarms over an informal settlement sprouting on land earmarked for the resettlement of Phumla Mqashi residents. What was meant to accommodate 500 units has quickly expanded beyond the planned number, with unnamed leaders allegedly charging R30 000 to R40 000 per site.

The sudden development has left local homeowners frustrated and anxious. One resident, who requested anonymity, said, “We want to know why we were not informed about this relocation in the first place. It feels like decisions are being made over our heads.”

Official plans versus reality

The land in question was officially designated to relocate residents from the Phumla Mqashi informal settlement, freeing the area for Eskom to construct a substation. However, local residents claim they were never consulted, sparking outrage over transparency and the impact on their community.

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi previously warned against illegal land occupation in the province, vowing to demolish unauthorized shacks. Yet, the unfolding situation in Zakariya Park appears to contradict that stance, leaving residents and observers questioning accountability.

Property values and safety concerns

Homeowners in Zakariya Park are worried that proximity to an expanding informal settlement could depress property values and increase incidents of theft or break-ins. “It’s not just about inconvenience,” one resident said. “We are concerned about safety and the long-term impact on our homes.”

Local leadership under scrutiny

Residents are calling on ANC Ward 122 councillor Sithembiso Zungu, who also serves as MMC for group corporate and shared services in Johannesburg, for answers. Zungu confirmed that only 500 units were officially demarcated for the Phumla Mqashi resettlement. Despite repeated attempts, both Zungu and the City of Johannesburg’s MMC for Human Settlements, Mlungisi Mabaso, did not respond to calls or messages.

Political analysts and urban planners note that such disputes often arise when informal settlement plans clash with established suburban communities. Transparency and timely communication from local government are crucial to prevent tensions and ensure orderly resettlement programs.

Community reaction

Social media platforms have become a forum for residents to voice concerns, with local groups calling for accountability and stricter enforcement of settlement limits. Many emphasize the need for dialogue between city officials, the resettled community, and existing residents to avoid escalation and maintain safety in the area.

With tensions simmering, Zakariya Park’s residents are demanding clarity: Will the settlement expand beyond the planned 500 units? How will the city ensure safety, infrastructure, and property protection? Until answers come, unease is likely to persist in this Johannesburg suburb.

{Source: The Citizen}

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