Pollution nightmare: Clare Estate community battles illegal dumping at historic quarry

RESIDENTS of Clare Estate are fighting against illegal dumping at the Sydenham Quarry, which has transformed from a natural haven to a pollution hazard.

- YOSHINI PERUMAL

CLARE Estate is fighting against illegal dumping at the Sydenham Quarry.

With health issues rising and property values plummeting, the community demands immediate intervention from authorities who have so far failed to act.

They are calling on the Department of Health and the city to put a stop to illegal dumping.

The area which was once a mining area for blue stones, had become a serene piece of nature attracting an array of birds and fish after the mine closed in the 1970s.

A source, who did not want to be named, said the quarry belonged to four different individuals. He alleged one of the owners was illegally operating a dump at the quarry.

“There is an entry point which is heavily guarded and has boom gates. The guards do not allow you to enter the property. But we have watched many trucks being allowed access. Some of the trucks are marked company vehicles, and they dump rubble, building rubble, household dirt, polystyrene, chemicals, and foam.

“Trucks are driving in and out of the area and causing traffic congestion, pollution, damage to the roads, and safety risks to road users and pedestrians.

“We have tried protesting, and calling on authorities to put an end to the illegal dumping, but nothing has been done. The owner continues to operate without fear, as if he is running a legitimate business,” the source said.

At a meeting last week with the Clare Estate Action Committee, Clare Estate Ratepayers Association, and concerned residents, community leaders claimed their concerns had fallen on deaf ears for over a year.

Kavir Boodoo, chairperson of the Clare Estate Ratepayers Association, said they had been knocking on the doors of the relevant authorities to put an end to the illegal dumping, and they refuse to accept “another dumping ground”.