Heavy rains blamed for poor conditions at Primrose Cemetery

The City of Ekurhuleni (CoE) blames the recent rainfall on the lack of maintenance of the Primrose Cemetery.

Ward 36 Clr Wendy Morgan visited the cemeteries and expressed dissatisfaction about the graveyards.

Residents of Ward 36 raised concerns after visiting the graves of their loved ones at the Primrose Cemetery.

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To their surprise, the cemetery had overgrown grass and bushes covering the graves. Some of the tall headstones were only partially visible.

The grievances included the overgrown trees, grass and weeds, missing gates and broken palisade walls, which ultimately granted criminals free access to the cemetery to vandalise property.

Vandalism is a major concern at the cemetery, following numerous reports of graves being vandalised.

The City of Ekurhuleni spokesperson, Zweli Dlamini blamed these issues on the recent rainfall and lack of manpower to maintain the cemetery.

“Maintenance of cemeteries is done on a rotational basis due to human capital constraints and other competing needs.

“The amount of rainfall received recently, and in the past months also contributed to the current state of the facility,” said Dlamini.

“The department has put together a plan of action to address cemetery maintenance as part of the Easter period preparations.

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“Environmental Resource and Waste Management – Parks and Cemeteries is responsible for the maintenance,” said Dlamini.

Dlamini said vandalism of facilities is one of the biggest challenges that the city is confronted with, and it requires a concerted effort with the community.

“Due to financial constraints, only two security guards for a day shift are allocated for the said facility. Regrettably, thugs have resorted to targeting sacred places like cemeteries.

“The city is aware of the fence damages, and the matter was reported in line with the city’s processes and procedures.

“Due to financial constraints and non-existence of the fencing tender, timelines for repair cannot be determined at this stage but the matter is receiving attention,” said Dlamini.

“The cemetery has reached its burial capacity limit. Only second and third burials are accommodated,” said Dlamini.
When asked to explain in detail about the Jewish servitude inside the cemetery Dlamini said the Jewish community was allocated the space many years ago.