This week, the Democratic Alliance (DA) in Merafong conducted an oversight inspection at the cemetery in Khutsong, Merafong City after residents alerted us to sinkhole formation. After the heavy rains over the weekend, these photos clearly show just how much gravesites have already recessed into the ground The situation is causing deep pain and suffering in communities whose loved ones are buried here.
We are deeply concerned that without immediate intervention, families will not be able to safeguard the remains of their family members. Just being present at the site, is posing danger as sinkhole formation is unpredictable and may cause innocent bystanders to be injured.
Broken and fallen-over gravestones are littered everywhere, shattering the legacies of the persons they represent.
We have escalated the situation formally to the municipality and have been given assurances by the responsible manager that action will be taken. Khutsong has a historic sinkhole problem. Even though this area has been declared a disaster and more than a hundred million rands have been allocated to recovery, residents are still suffering loss and damage daily. The situation at this cemetery is adding insult to injury for this community.
The DA will be monitoring this situation closely, and we will provide feedback to the affected families. If you are concerned about a loved one who is buried here, please give us your details, so that we can help you act. Visit the following link and leave your details.