Durban — The eThekwini Municipality claims that their law enforcement wing has been closely monitoring the proliferation of illegal mechanics operating in the city.

This comes after the Umbilo Business Association (UBA) complained of several illegal mechanics operating on the pavements causing discontent among business owners in the area. The spokesperson for the UBA, Tash Wells said they informed a Durban Metro Police official about the matter but did not receive any feedback.

Wells said the UBA is facing challenges with roadside illegal panel beaters, mechanics and tyre repair businesses breaking the by-laws. Some mechanics had rented a premises but took on too many vehicles. Instead, they used the sidewalk to carry out repairs, he said, adding that some paint vehicles and also conduct welding on the pavements because of space constraints.

“These kinds of practices are causing discontent among reputable business owners. This situation could result in disinvestment in this vital industrial hub. This practice is in conflict with the law-abiding businesses in the Umbilo area who are paying for water, electricity and rates. These mechanics work along the roadside and sidewalk causing major inconvenience to the public,” Wells said.

In August 2024, the eThekwini Municipality clamped down on illegal roadside mechanics on Umgeni Road. Municipal spokesperson Gugu Sisilana said law enforcement is clamping down on illegal mechanics throughout the city.

“Eight suspects were arrested during the Umgeni Road operation. They were all in possession of fraudulent South African citizenship documentation. As part of maintaining law and order, Metro Police will intensify by-law enforcement operations and multidisciplinary roadblocks throughout the City including in areas such as Umbilo,” Sisilana said.

She added that the Cleansing and Solid Waste (CSW) team are also part of these operations, and they provide high-pressure wash cleaning services to remove oil and grime on the road. This is part of a long-term programme to ensure a clean environment in eThekwini.

The City reiterates that everybody has a role to play to keep the City safe and clean. Sisilana said that Durban Metro Police attended the UBA meeting where the ward councillor and Umbilo SAPS were also present.

“The issues mentioned were raised and Metro Police responded accordingly during the meeting. Metro Police will be implementing a multi-disciplinary operation through the Area Based-Management Unit and the inner-city bylaw enforcement team. Metro Police is also carrying out joint operations with SAPS,” Sisilana stated.

The UBA has approximately 87 members in the business hub. Wells said that UBA employs two full time cleaners in the Congella area. The UBA also has several community upliftment projects.

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