NEWCASTLE CBD – Reports of the declining state of Roy Point Cemetery are not exaggerated.
A single walkthrough of the cemetery last week revealed discarded alcohol bottles among the burial plots, long grass on and around the headstones, and certain grave sites sinking metres into the ground.
In one area, blankets and clothing suggest vagrants sleep among the burial plots.
Read: Cemetery in a grave state
Other areas are almost inaccessible, thanks to overgrowth, collapsing earth and snarls of barbed wire on and around grave sites.
These problems have sparked complaints about the dead being disrespected.
One resident submitted photographs earlier this year, which showed evidence of vandalism of some headstones and grave sites.
There is nothing sinister about the problems this time.
Head of Parks, Recreation and Cemeteries, Vish Govender explained Roy Point and all other cemeteries were cut according to the roster, as mentioned in last week’s Advertiser
“We cut walkways only, but in extreme cases we do cut but not on top of grave sites.”
Mr Govender said the sinking of grave sites was due to Newcastle’s high water table.
He added companies who were contracted had to be reputable, as some removed sand when erecting headstones and tombstones above grave sites.
“Another important point to mention is that families need to ensure they visit the grave sites regularly, to inspect the graves and take the appropriate action.”
In a meeting earlier in the month, Mr Govender stated there was a permanent staff complement tasked with the care and maintenance of cemeteries.
However, residents still shouldered responsibility for the grave sites themselves.
Must read on the website:
Remember to visit our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages. You can also email our offices on reveshni@caxton.co.za OR Bruce Douglas at Newed2@caxton.co.za
Add us on WhatsApp today! Newcastle Advertiser: 082 874 5550 and BBM pin D1EF333B.
