Crime and Pollution in Uitenhage

Crime Data in Uitenhage

Crime Perception and Concerns

In 2024, Uitenhage's crime situation presents significant challenges, with residents voicing heightened concerns across various crime categories. The crime index indicates very high crime levels that have impacted the community's sense of safety.

While concern is evident during both day and night, the feeling of safety during daylight is notably low, and anxiety peaks after dark.

Some notable concerns include:

• Property Crimes - Property crimes such as theft, car break-ins, and home burglaries are significant concerns for Uitenhage residents. The rising incidence of these crimes contributes to a pervasive sense of insecurity in the city.
• Drug-Related Issues - Drug-related crimes are a serious worry among local residents. The persistent problem of drug activity contributes to broader safety issues and has a detrimental impact on the community's well-being.
• Violent Crimes - Violent crimes, including cases of robbery and physical assaults, are frequent concerns in Uitenhage. The perception of these crimes is high, further intensifying the uneasy atmosphere in the city.
• Public Safety - Residents of Uitenhage feel particularly unsafe during nighttime, reflecting high levels of concern about potential threats of assault and theft. Daytime safety assessments are also not satisfactory, with low confidence in the city's security.

Crime Trends and Safety

• Rising Crime Concerns - The perception that crime is on the rise is prevalent and affects how residents view their community. The increasing worry spans various types of crimes, with violent and property crimes being particularly troubling.
• Specific Fears - Residents specifically express worries about theft of personal belongings, including vehicle-related theft. There is also a notable concern about being mugged or attacked, impacting personal behavior and choices made about safety.

Summary of Crime in Uitenhage

Uitenhage faces significant challenges related to crime, requiring targeted interventions to address both violent and property crimes. Community safety initiatives and increased law enforcement presence are critical to alleviate the ongoing fears among residents.

Crime Rankings

The crime ranking by city for South Africa is based on a continuously updated index, incorporating data up to 36 months old and calculated twice a year. Cities are ranked on a scale from "very low" to "very high" crime levels, with safety being the inverse, where a high safety index indicates a safer city.

1. Pietermaritzburg

South Africa

2. Pretoria

South Africa

3. Johannesburg

South Africa

4. Durban

South Africa

5. Port Elizabeth

South Africa

6. Cape Town

South Africa

Air Quality and Pollution Levels

Uitenhage boasts exceptionally clean air, with pollution levels being remarkably low, reflecting the city's success in managing air quality. The community benefits from the effective measures in place, resulting in a pleasant environment for residents.

Public perception aligns with the statistics, showing satisfaction with both air quality and its impact on quality of life, marking a significant strength for Uitenhage.

• PM2.5 (Fine Particulate Matter) - There is negligible concern regarding PM2.5 levels, as they pose no significant health risks to the population, including vulnerable groups. This contributes positively to the city's overall environmental quality.
• PM10 (Coarse Particulate Matter) - PM10 levels are equally low, reinforcing the clean air conditions in Uitenhage. This is maintained through effective initiatives that ensure breathable air without harmful pollutants.

Waste and Noise Pollution

Noise pollution is perceived negatively, with residents feeling that it detracts from otherwise pleasant living conditions. The city's challenge is addressing these concerns to ensure a better quality of life.

Contrarily, waste management receives favorable reviews, with residents expressing satisfaction regarding garbage disposal and overall cleanliness.

• Garbage Disposal Satisfaction - The city excels in waste management, with high satisfaction levels regarding garbage disposal. This commitment to cleanliness positively influences the community’s perception of urban livability in Uitenhage.
• Noise and Light Pollution - Although air and waste pollution are managed well, noise pollution remains a significant concern in Uitenhage. The resulting disturbances affect daily life, indicating an area for future improvement.

Green Spaces and Water Quality

Uitenhage’s green spaces are exceptional, offering residents ample recreational areas that contribute to the city’s high livability standards.

Water quality is also highly rated, with residents enjoying accessible and uncontaminated drinking water, further enhancing the city's appeal.

• Green and Parks Quality - Residents appreciate the quality and accessibility of Uitenhage's green spaces and parks, which are considered vital assets that enhance community life and contribute significantly to environmental health.
• Drinking Water Quality - With excellent drinking water quality, Uitenhage ensures that residents have access to safe and reliable water sources, reinforcing the city's commitment to providing high living standards.

Pollution Rankings

The pollution ranking for South Africa is based on a combination of visitor perceptions and data from institutions like the World Health Organization. The Pollution Index estimates overall pollution levels by considering air and water pollution, garbage disposal, and other factors, with air pollution given the highest weight, while the Pollution Exp Scale uses an exponential function to highlight extremely polluted cities.

1. Johannesburg

South Africa

2. Pretoria

South Africa

3. Durban

South Africa

4. Cape Town

South Africa