A building on the premises of Geduld cemetery which was almost destroyed by a fire will not be repaired says metro spokesman, Themba Gadebe.
“There are illegal occupants living at the cemetery and there is no use for the building as it is an inactive cemetery,” says Gadebe.
“The cemetery is on a list of buildings to be demolished that was sent to Real Estate for review and action,” adds Gadebe.
The cemetery has both new and old graves and the answer to what will happen to the existing tombstones and bodies is unanswered.
In addition, some locals have already paid for a burial place at the cemetery and are left wondering if they will be reimbursed.
Local resident Richard Pombo (35) says, “I have many family members who are buried in the cemetery and we visit them every Sunday.
“We as a family will fight at whatever cost to stop the demolition from happening,” adding “my sister has been there since 1979 as well as other family members.”
Veronica Jardim (60), who has paid for a burial spot above her husband, wants to know if she will be reimbursed.
“My son and husband are both buried in the cemetery and I visit them as often as I can, it’s just not safe for me to go alone,” she adds.
Metro is yet to respond to questions posed regarding the demolition of the Geduld cemetery and whether the graves will be moved and to where.
