Railway fence opening concerns residents

The opening along the barrier fence to the Toorang Train Station is said to be a safety hazard and an escape route for the criminals.

The ward councillor for the area, Clr Mike Spadino, said he has been inundated with calls from distressed residents about the situation.

“It has to be closed and it has to be done as a matter of urgency. People are using it to cross to the other side on the railway. This is putting them in danger. I have attended several scenes where someone was knocked down by a train in the past. Children can get through the hole and could also be hit by a train,” he said.

Clr Spadino said the complaints about criminals are also a serious concern.

“Criminals rob residents as they walk along the streets and now they can escape through the hole and flee using the other side of the railway line. It has to be closed before something horrible happens,” said Clr Spadino.

He added that community members have to be vigilant and active in the community.

“We all need to be vigilant and aware of our surroundings. Join the community-based structures that fight crime in the area. Be part of the structures like the community police forum,” he said.

The Cleveland Community Police Forum (CCPF) chairperson, Mr Godfrey Mothibe, said he had not received any complaints about the hole.

“I will go there with my team that that works on that side of town. I will communicate with the people and see how we can deal with it,” he said.

Mr Mothibe urged the community to be proactive.

“Let’s all get involve. Let us get involved and be proactive. We cannot wait until we are directly affected by crime before we stand up. Let us be vigilant and be part of structures like the CPF,“ said Mr Mothibe.

Mr Mothibe can be contacted on 082 551 0652.

An inquiry was send to Mr Vase Nhlapho, from Prasa Metrorail on Wednesday, November 19. Comment was requested by Thursday, November 20 at 9am.

No comment was received at the time of going to print.