The Tshwane metro is looking into what is causing stormwater drains in the Moot to get blocked after heavy rains.
This after a blockage at the railroad crossing at 25th Avenue in Villiera made it impossible for pedestrians and learners to use the sidewalks recently.
“We tried to unblock the stormwater drain earlier, but that was when we realised that the water did not drain,” said Tshwane metro spokesman Lindela Mashigo.
Mashigo said the metro were struggling to determine why the water did not drain.
“We are investigating the problem.”
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“It seems to us that the stormwater pipe must be extended to a drainage point outside the railway line,” he said.
Local CPF chairperson Marcel Versveld said the organisation has cleaned the area in the past, adding that the stream below the bridge was a crime and illegal dumping hot spot.
Local resident Marco Nel previously told Rekord there was a lot of loose soil in the road.
“This quickly turns into a deep mud puddle with every rain shower, which means pedestrians cannot walk there.”
Marco’s father, Johan, said he was also worried about the poor state of the sidewalks.
“Although I do not travel there regularly, I feel sorry for the people who have to walk there every day,” he said.
“I hope this gets resolved soon.”
The problem also exists at other parts of Villieria.
According to resident, Mike Sittel a similar problem existed further up 25th Avenue on the corner of Haarhoff Street and another in 30th Avenue.
“There is grass growing out of the asphalt, which also blocks the drains,” he said.
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“We have been reporting this issue to the metro for years, but to no avail.”
Sittel said he was worried the grass blockage could damage nearby properties.
“This is not a small problem,” he said.
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