Many storm-water drain inlets in Greenhills are exposed and pose various risks to the public.
According to DA Ward 6 councillor Ellik de Lange, in many cases the metal used to reinforce the concrete slabs covering the drain inlets had been stolen and sold as scrap metal.
De Lange said not only does it pose a risk to pedestrians, it also may result in serious vehicle accidents.
Imagine if a driver is trying to dodge a pothole by driving partially into the oncoming lane.
“If a vehicle driver in that lane tries to avoid an accident by swerving towards the side of the road, his or her vehicle could end up in the open drain,” De Lange said.
He attributed many of the missing concrete slabs to criminal activity. “When you see people pushing or carrying what looks like garbage, they might actually be transporting stolen materials from manholes, storm-water drains and even from power boxes to make a quick buck.”
De Lange said the community is aware of the municipality’s financial constraints and replacing the stolen items require a lot of money.
“They need to put back the slabs. It will be safer for those on foot. We know there are many other wards with other issues but this is one that should be looked into,” De Lange added.
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