Residents of Ext 18, eMbalenhle said the open manhole next to their yards poses a risk to them and their children.
Residents said they reported the open manhole for many years now, but the Govan Mbeki Municipality doesn’t take them seriously.
They also said councillors are aware of the manhole and they also reported it to the municipality.
“We are scared because it doesn’t matter whether you are an adult or a child, once you can fall inside this manhole, no one will know.
“Right now, we don’t know if people have perhaps been thrown in it because this is also a playing ground for criminals who rob people at night.
“It is risky for our children, we always make sure that our children do not come near it,” said Vincent Mabunda, a concerned resident.
The residents have tried to barricade the area around the manhole.
“We ask the municipality to come and do something about this manhole before it causes an accident,” said Mabunda.
The manhole has been covered since Ridge Times approached the municipality for comment.
Donald Green, acting communications manager said a proper inspection will be done to determine the root causes of blockages in the area.
He said in the meantime, a high-pressure jet truck has been deployed to areas where there are sewage spills.
“Most of the blockages are caused by the foreign objects people throw into the manholes or flush down the toilets.”
Green said those items are clogging up the sewer system and even have the potential to damage the wastewater treatment plant.
“Residents are therefore encouraged to report blocked and overflowing drains and any prohibited acts such as the opening of manhole covers to dispose of rubbish, to ensure that the sewer system runs smoothly,” said Green.
