The line runs through Northmead, Lakefield and Western Extension and people have until February 1 to sign the petition.
These are the concerns the residents and business owners have about the railway line:
- We the residents living along the railway line in Western Extension, Lakefield and Westdene have been under siege from criminals for years, it has now escalated out of control.
- We have pleaded for help regarding upgrading of stronger fencing – to no avail. The fences are too flimsy and are cut through regularly by criminals, and we repair them at our own expense.
- There are areas where there is no fence which is an easy access for criminals, it also makes this very dangerous, as children and animals can access the tracks.
- The armed robberies and attacks are rising, with residents being shot, criminals escaping along the railway line and never being found.
- There is power available on the track, but no lighting whatsoever, making it an ideal place for robbers to hide tools and stolen goods.We need these areas to be lit up, making any illegal activity visible.
- The railway line is an easy escape route for crimes committed in the area and there would be less illegal activity and more arrests.
- Property prices have dropped to an all-time low and are having a major effect on selling the properties.
- The grass is left to grow to extreme heights, which is an ideal hiding place for the criminals and also dangerous if the grass catches alight.
- When the residents plant thorn bushes by the fence on the Prasa side they are removed, but they are there to deter the criminal elements entering the properties.
- Businesses cannot continue operating at a loss because of this scourge.
- Insurance companies are charging residents/businesses a high premium, as they live/work by the railway line.
For more information on the petition, or to sign it, contact Clr Mary Goby on 082 679 7109 or email mary.goby@ekurhuleni.gov.za.
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