We, the undersigned residents of Lotus River, Cape Town, hereby call upon the National Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (NDPWI) to immediately take action regarding the neglected and dangerous state of ERF 2044, located at 290 Klip Road, Lotus River.

Problem Statement:

ERF 2044 is currently an unmanaged open space that poses a severe threat to the safety and well-being of the residents of Lotus River. Due to its lack of maintenance, this property has become a hotspot for violent crime, including gang-related shootings and even murder. The vacant land has effectively become an escape route for criminals, allowing them to move freely between areas without obstruction.

Legal Basis for Action:

1. Government’s Duty Under the Government Immovable Asset Management Act, 2007 (GIAMA)

According to the Government Immovable Asset Management Act, 2007, state-owned properties must be managed efficiently, effectively, and in a manner that upholds social and economic value. Section 3(1)(c) states that immovable state assets must be utilised optimally in the public interest and aligned with government service delivery objectives. The current state of ERF 2044 contradicts these legal obligations, as it serves no public benefit and instead endangers the community.

2. Legal Framework for Disposal Under the State Land Disposal Act, 1961

The State Land Disposal Act 48 of 1961 provides for the disposal of state-owned land that is not required for public purposes. Given that ERF 2044 has remained unused for years and has no foreseeable government function, we formally request that the Department disposes of the land in accordance with Section 2 of the Act, thereby allowing it to be transferred to the City of Cape Town or a community entity that can put it to productive and safe use.

3. Duty to Prevent Crime and Safeguard Public Safety

As an organ of state, the National Department of Public Works and Infrastructure has a legal and ethical responsibility to prevent its properties from becoming crime hubs. The continued inaction on ERF 2044 directly enables violent crime, jeopardising the lives of law-abiding residents.

Our Demands:

Given the serious risks posed by the current state of ERF 2044, we demand that the Department take immediate and decisive action by:

1. Disposing of the land in terms of the State Land Disposal Act, 1961, so that it can be developed for a purpose that benefits the community.
2. If disposal is not possible in the short term, the Department must fence the property as a matter of urgency to prevent criminal activity and restore community safety.
3. Engaging with the City of Cape Town and local stakeholders to develop a long-term solution that transforms the property into a space that serves the needs of the residents, such as a community park, housing project, or public facility.
   
   Why Your Signature Matters: We, as residents of Lotus River, deserve a safe environment free from the terror of gang violence. We refuse to accept continued inaction from the Department while lives are at risk. By signing this petition, you are standing in support of a safer, healthier, and more vibrant community. We call upon the National Department of Public Works and Infrastructure to act now. Sign and share this petition to demand urgent action!