Long grass could hide the criminal element
One of the overgrown areas is the veld near the SPCA, where grass has grown to about two metres tall.
At the start of the rainy season, the overgrown grass in many areas became an eyesore and is also believed to be a contributing factor to criminal activity.
The municipality’s Parks and Recreation Department has this week begun trimming the sidewalks in some parts, in both the CBD and residential areas. Head of Communications at the municipality, Mlungisi Khumalo confirmed a schedule would be released soon.
A number of residents approached the Newcastle Advertiser as a last resort, after numerous complaints were logged with the municipality. Some of the areas which stood out, were the veld near the SPCA, where the grass has grown to a height of about two metres. Residents feared this would attract criminal activity as well as snakes and rodents.
ALSO READ: LETTER: Who is responsible for long grass?
According to a reliable source, the delay in grass cutting was caused by a shortage of staff at the municipality.
Another area identified was Nagtegaal Street, where the grass had grown to such a height it obscured the vision of motorists cornering the bend.
“The overgrown grass on sidewalks also forces pedestrians to walk into the road. The verges and even potholes are concealed by the grass,” said a resident.
SAPS has provided tips to pedestrians using footpaths and shortcuts, which are overgrown with grass.
Below are tips to help to keep you from being that ‘easy target’:
– SAPS warns pedestrians to avoid using shortcuts/footpaths between Majuba College (in Barry Hertzog Park) and the Farmers Hall, as that open space is ‘no longer safe’. People are being robbed of their belongings by the criminals.
– Know your destination and route.
– Avoid text messaging and talking on the phone.
– Use the buddy system. If you must walk alone, choose open, well-lit, and well-travelled areas.
– Avoid taking shortcuts through deserted areas such as parks, playgrounds and vacant lots with overgrown grass.
– If you sense you are being followed, change directions or cross the street. If the person persists, run to the nearest place where you’ll find people.
– Do not allow a stranger to follow you to your doorstep. Go to a public place where you can call the police if you feel threatened.
ALSO READ: Long grass and bricks obscure motorists’ visibility
Is the grass overgrown in your area? Let us know: send an email to newed@caxton.co.za
Contact us
WhatsApp: 082 874 5550
Email: Reveshni Douglas (Editor) at reveshni@caxton.co.za
Make sure you follow us for constant updates:
