Manhole danger ignored in Drividian Road

Manholes with no covers is a problem facing residents of Drividian Road. Two manholes are currently without covers in the street. This is seen as a very real danger, as a high school and primary school are situated in Drividian Road.

This means that children walk this road morning and afternoon, and residents say it’s just a matter of time before a child falls in. When a Ladysmith Gazette journalist went to take photos, she was shocked to see how deep the manholes are.

“With the holes left open, a child could get seriously hurt if they fell in,” is the general consensus among residents.

One such Drividian Road resident claims to have complained to both the local municipality and uThukela regarding this matter, but in vain as nothing has been done about it.

The manholes are a hazard for pedestrians and young children alike, with the latter being too curious for their own good and playing too close to the “gaping danger”. This applies to pets as well, who could also fall in and injure themselves.

Compounding the problem is that many people see the holes as perfect to dump their refuse in, leading to an unpleasant sight and a terrible stench.

“I really hope this matter is addressed soon by either the local or district municipality, whoever is responsible for this accident waiting to happen. We have children and we don’t deserve to live in fear every day that tragedy will strike. Not to mention the rubbish that gets thrown into the manholes all the time. Do people have no pride in their surroundings?” said another concerned resident.