Overgrown grass and weeds make it almost impossible for people to find the gravesites of their loved ones at the Brakpan Cemetery.
The unkempt condition of the cemetery has residents feeling fearful, and many have questioned when it will be safe to visit again.
“My sister-in-law was up from Cape Town. and we went to visit our family graves. To our horror, we could not even get out of the car to approach the graves for fear of being bitten by snakes or spiders,” said Julie Christou.
“I don’t think the grass had been cut for several months.”
Insects and reptiles are not the only concerns. The cemetery is also reportedly used by burglars to stash stolen belongings.
The loot is allegedly concealed in the long grass until it is safe for the criminals to return for the goods and cash in on their lawlessness.
It is also clear other unsavoury characters frequent the cemetery because the buildings on the property have fallen victim to vandals and thieves.
The structures have either been stripped of bricks and other valuable materials or defaced with graffiti.
Rubbish and the remains of fires also indicate vagrants may live in the cemetery. Tombstones have been desecrated, disturbing the sanctity of the departed.
Ward 97 Clr Brandon Pretorius told the Brakpan Herald he is as concerned as the residents about the deteriorating service delivery.
Grass-cutting is, however, expected to soon start in areas of Brakpan, including the cemetery.
“The town has always had challenges, but we have never seen it as out of hand as it currently is,” said Pretorius.
“Before the end of last year, we (councillors) reported as a collective to our local parks department our concerns over the maintenance of grass-cutting. I have consistently engaged with our local parks department to look at the way forward.
“Last week Monday, a meeting was held with the parks department depot manager and ward councillors, as well as the appointed contractor, to determine who will do what cutting and how soon we will see action on the ground.
“Since the beginning of March, I have noticed some movement on grass-cutting, but it is unacceptable that the department is only now attending to the long-outstanding state of Brakpan’s grass.
“The engagement was fruitful and indicated positive movement on the way forward.
“The contractor will bring much-needed relief and will attend to several areas. This includes the cemetery that urgently needs attention.
“I will keep a close eye on the progress made and will monitor progress daily to ensure the department and contractor do what they are getting paid to do.”
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