Residents of Khayalethu Section in Khutsong are raising the alarm over three large sinkholes that have remained unrepaired for more than five years, posing a growing danger to their safety, health, and homes.

The sinkholes are located near the old Teachers’ Quarters, and are clearly visible to anyone driving through the area. According to local resident Elias Mkhabe, the problem began after a municipal contractor scraped the ground to install containers — despite warnings from the community.

“These sinkholes caved in five years ago after a contractor scraped the ground. I warned them not to scrape, but they didn’t listen,” said Mkhabe.

Since then, the sinkholes have expanded significantly, with residents reporting that they are now being used as illegal dumping sites. The resulting stench and infestation of large rats have turned the area into a health hazard.

“We are not happy with this, and the municipality and councillors just do not care. They tell us to stop people from dumping here, but when we try, those people threaten us,” Mkhabe added.

Another long-time resident, 73-year-old Dorah Motladile, expressed concern for the children who play near the sinkholes, unaware of the danger they pose. Locals also fear that the sinkholes will widen and threaten nearby homes, as has happened in other areas of Khutsong in the past.

The community believes the sinkholes were triggered by a leaking municipal water pipe, and despite multiple visits by different officials and teams over the years, no action has been taken.

“Every two years, a new group comes here to take photos of the sinkholes, but no one ever does anything,” Mkhabe said.

By the time of publishing, no response had been received from the Merafong City Local Municipality regarding plans to address the issue.