The open area behind Taj Street, leading into Atteridgeville, more commonly known as the hill area has been a crime hotspot for many years now.
Residents in Laudium Ext 3 have for long been asking authorities to close off the area leading into the hills, as criminals who attack homes in Laudium use the passage going to the hills as a quick getaway.
Since 2014, after many criminal attacks on Taj Street homes from the hillside, Cllr Prajay Ramjee started reclaiming the hill between Atteridgeville and Laudium by conducting routine off-road patrols and leading regular hikes. ”Once criminals saw that there was activity on the hill, the attacks stopped, but the hiking continued,” said Prajay.
“When people join us for these hikes, you can see the joy on their faces as they forget their problems and stresses down below. The original hike was a short, easy 3.5km hike, but now it’s been increased to a more challenging 5.5km hike with views of Johannesburg to the South, Pretoria CBD to the East, and the Magaliesberg to the North. This hike fits in perfectly with our Non Profits mandate of youth development and environmental protection, as we educate hikers on the trail. We aim to keep the youth off the streets and away from bad elements, by encouraging them to engage in our sport and recreational initiatives. We are in the process of turning the hill into a protected area where we hope to stop illegal dumping, get rid of invasive species and keep homes safe from criminals. On our adventures, we have seen a porcupine, hares, guinea fowl and various other birds. The hill is also home to a species of Protea called Caffra and Aloe. Invasive plants include the Lantana Camara which releases chemicals into the soil that inhibit the growth of other plants nearby, creating an imbalance in the ecosystem. Residents are urged to support our initiatives by merely participating in the free hikes,” Prajay concluded.
