WELKOM – Residents in Bedelia are calling for urgent action over a long-running sinkhole and sewage problem at the corner of Hermina and Romeo Street.

The sinkhole, located on property used by a religious congregation, has reportedly been present for between three and four years.

According to the DA, the problem has been reported to the Matjhabeng Local Municipality on several occasions.

The condition of the property has reportedly become so dangerous that the congregation has had to relocate.

The surrounding area is also affected by an ongoing sewage problem. Raw sewage is reportedly being pumped into the veld between 1 and 21 Romeo Street on a daily basis.

There are also concerns that damaged or collapsed stormwater infrastructure could be contributing to blockages and failures in the sewer network.

The situation has raised concerns about the safety of residents, nearby properties, members of the congregation, and the environment.

DA ward 33 candidate Claudia Doig has conducted several visits to the site to document the problems and raise them with municipal officials.

The site was inspected on Tuesday 25 August, when drone footage was obtained to document the affected area.

A further visit took place on Monday 7 September, accompanied by DA member of parliament (MP) George Michalakis. On Friday 11 September, Doig returned to the site with the municipal Speaker and officials from the municipality’s engineering and infrastructure departments.

Despite these engagements, residents are reportedly still waiting for a permanent solution.

Cllr. René Steyn, DA councillor for the Matjhabeng Local Municipality, says the municipality now needs to establish the cause of the sinkhole and sewage failures, secure the area, address the infrastructure problems, and provide residents with a clear timeline for the work.

The party has called on the Matjhabeng Local Municipality to:

■ immediately secure the affected area;

■ conduct a comprehensive technical assessment of the sinkhole and surrounding infrastructure;

■ stop the discharge of raw sewage into the veld;

■ repair the affected stormwater and sewer infrastructure;

■ rehabilitate the contaminated area; and

■ provide residents with a written repair plan and clear completion dates.

The matter highlights the ongoing impact of failing municipal infrastructure and services on communities, with residents in the affected area facing the consequences of a problem that has reportedly persisted for several years.

The DA says it will continue monitoring the site and engaging the relevant municipal departments until the infrastructure is repaired and the area is made safe for the public.

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