A Blue Gum tree which has fallen into a stormwater servitude in Highway Gardens has Ward 92 Clr Tiziana Plaskitt concerned.
The massive tree, which stood next to the servitude along Beverley Avenue, fell earlier in December.
The tree is obstructing the flow of water.
Plaskit believes poor weather conditions, soil erosion and termites caused the tree to fall.
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While looking at the root system of the fallen tree, Plaskitt pointed out what she believed was a termite nest.
“Termites eat trees from the inside out. If the roots were damaged then it’s no surprise the tree fell,” said Plaskitt.
This is not the first time the NEWS has reported on the stormwater servitude parallel to Beverley Avenue.
Five months ago the NEWS met with local councillors to discuss the deterioration of the servitude.
Plaskitt said in July that if nothing was done to address the soil erosion, the trees would eventually fall.
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“The fallen tree is a danger to the community. If we have extreme rains the area could flood,” said Plaskitt.
Because the tree hinders the flow of the water, the servitude would dam up until it bursts its banks.
To try and prevent flooding, the tree will have to be removed from the servitude.
“Because of its size the tree needs to be cut into manageable pieces and removed with a crane,” said Plaskitt.
Although the tree could contribute to flooding, Plaskitt is thankful it fell in the spruit and not onto houses parallel to the servitude.
A request for comment was sent to the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality’s communications department on December 13.
Comment was requested by December 15 at 9am.
At the time of going to print, no comment had been received.
