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City of Johannesburg Unable to Relocate Diepkloof Hostel Residents to Unfinished Housing Project
Johannesburg can’t move Diepkloof hostel dwellers to an unfinished housing project.
According to Eyewitness News, violence erupted in Soweto earlier this week, with three people being arrested. The violent protest is part of the Diepkloorf hostel residents’ demands that the City move them to a nearby housing development. This housing development has reportedly been unoccupied for more than ten years.
However, Patrick Phophi, the executive director of human settlements for the City of Johannesburg, explained that the housing project units are unsuitable due to the lack of essential amenities such as electricity, water, and basic sanitation.
Also read: Protest action in Diepkloof prompts motorists to avoid the area
“While some units have been completed or renovated and provided with necessary services, they have been occupied for an extended period. Once all the infrastructure is connected in the Giyani portion, it will be allocated to eligible beneficiaries to avoid the challenges associated with providing incomplete units,” stated Phophi.
The City of Johannesburg knows the pressing need for adequate housing and is working diligently to address the housing crisis. However, its first task is ensuring the housing project has essential services before relocating residents.
The municipality acknowledges the frustrations and demands of the Diepkloof hostel dwellers and remains committed to finding viable solutions. Efforts are underway to expedite the completion of the necessary infrastructure at the housing project.
Engagement and communication with the affected residents are ongoing.
Also read:
City Power Successfully Completes Electrification of Diepkloof Hostel, Citing Project Delays
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