Open hole a danger to children, passersby

LIMPOPO – Residents of Moime village outside Tzaneen, in ward 33 are calling on the Greater Tzaneen Municipality to close up or fence off an open hole in the ground that poses a danger to the community.
The hole, believed to be an abandoned mine, was reportedly left open by contractors a while ago and residents are now fearing for the safety of their children.
Most parents say they do not allow their children to play outside fearing they may play next to the mine and end up falling inside.
A concerned resident Matome Phasha, said the municipality does not really care about the community in the area.
He said they should have followed up regarding the contractors who drilled in the area without informing the community of what was happening.
“We have tried several times to report this issue to the headman and were referred to the ward councillor who promised to address the problem.”
Headman Pheneas Lepulana, said they have been fighting about the matter and also informed the council.
He said they would ask the ward councillor to get an excavator to close the hole as soon as possible so that everyone can be safe and would also put pressure on the municipality.
Councillor of ward 33 Sophia Rakganya, said they are aware of the cavity that was left by the contractor working in the area.
“As I speak we are making an arrangement to close that hole and we plan to work together with all stakeholders so that we ensure the safety of our residents, especially our children.”
Contacted for comment, Spokesperson for Greater Tzaneen Municipality, Neville Ndlala, said they were not aware of the open mine but will investigate and come up with a plan as soon as possible.
thoko@nmgroup.co.za