WHILE going to work and returning home one might see makeshift stalls along the emergency lane on the M19, with vendors selling anything from fruit to confectionary. And although a quick stop at the roadside stand may save time and money, it might also cost lives.
These illegal vendors have sprouted up all over Hillcrest and in particular the emergency lane along the M19.
Concerned motorists are appealing to Metro Police to fine these traders as they could be the cause of a fatal accident, or block emergency vehicles from getting through in a life and death situation.
Hillcrest resident Marge Mitchel said she was in infuriated when she saw women at their stall in the emergency lane.
“I could not believe my eyes when I saw this. These ladies are just sitting there waiting for customers blocking off the emergency lane, not only is this illegal, it is dangerous.
“If an ambulance needs to pass quickly through in a life and death situation they can’t as these ladies have nowhere to go.
“I complained to Metro Police about this, yet I still see the same ladies illegally selling at that spot. I am appealing to the community not to support such traders as they cause more harm than good,” said Mitchell.
Another concerned motorist, who contacted the Fever under anonymity, said he was travelling along the M19 when the car in front of him suddenly swerved over into the emergency lane to buy fruit from one of the traders.
“The car did not even indicate to pull over. I almost crashed my car trying to avoid him. When I looked in my rearview mirror I saw the driver buying fruit.
“I do understand these ladies are trying to make a living, however, they are putting a lot of lives at risk by selling their fruit on a busy road, not to mention blocking off the emergency lane.
“There are proper permits for people who want to trade, and specific places they can trade at.
“These ladies need to be removed from the M19 before a fatality occurs.”
According to the eThekwini Municipality by-laws, no street trader shall conduct their business on any public road or public place or create a traffic hazard.
The municipality called on residents to report illegal street vending to their local Metro Police, with the correct location of the area where the vending is being conducted.
To report illegal street vending in the Upper Highway area contact the Metro Police Outer West on 031 767 1222.
