PLUMTREE residents have criticised the local authority for failing to build free public toilets in the town centre while increasing paid toilets that many cannot afford, forcing travellers and residents to relieve themselves in nearby bushes.
The Plumtree Combined Residents and Development Association (PCRADA) says the central business district, particularly Phaneni rank, has no free public toilet except one privately owned facility that charges a fee.
PCRADA chairperson Richard Khumalo said the situation has become unbearable for low-income residents, vendors and travellers.
He said the absence of non-paying toilets has pushed people to use surrounding bushes, creating a serious health hazard.
Khumalo warned the practice could lead to cholera, dysentery and typhoid, especially during the rainy season.
He said the association first raised the issue with the council in March 2016, but no free toilet has been built. Residents say they are forced to choose between paying for toilets and buying food.
Plumtree town secretary Thembalami Nyoni said public toilets are available in town, citing Dingimuzi, Phaneni terminus, the Botswana border post and NRZ.
"So which place are they saying has no toilets in town?" Nyoni asked.
- Plumtree Town Council plans to demolish vending structures
- Plumtree moves to relocate kombis
- Plumtree residents demand free public toilets
