Water crisis exchanged for safety hazard

Rustenburg – On Friday morning 21 June 2024, a water pipe burst at the corner of Sesbania Avenue and Veronica Avenue in Geelhoutpark, causing significant damage to the road. The underground pipe rupture led to the tar road buckling and crumbling, creating an unsafe situation.

Boitumelo Mareume, Rustenburg Local Municipality communications manager said, “The complaint was received on Friday 21 June 2024, from our call centre, and was attended to on Saturday 22 June 2024. We concluded the repairs on Sunday 23 June 2024.”

Despite the quick response to fix the water pipe, the aftermath has left a large, dangerous hole in the middle of the road. Sandy Webb, founder of Rise Up Rustenburg, explained, “The municipality told the homeowner on the corner (where the hole is) that they would return to address the issue, but they have not yet.”

The road remains completely closed off, with the hole almost as wide as the road itself, making it impossible for vehicles to pass through. This situation is not only inconvenient but also poses a serious risk to drivers and pedestrians.

What will be done about this new problem? The community eagerly awaits a solution to ensure this road is safe and accessible once again.

Main photo: “This situation is hazardous for vehicles! If the tape comes loose, drivers need to be especially cautious at night.”
David Ross, community member