Theft and vandalism of Villieria Reservoir infrastructure sparks concern
The metro said it will investigate as residents raised concern that their local reservoir is targeted by thieves.
According to ward councillor Adriana Randall, criminals and vagrants have targeted the Villieria Reservoir.
“Thieves and vagrants are drawn to enter the reservoir premises because they know there are no security officers, and no cameras monitoring them,” she said.
She expressed concern that individuals who collect scrap metal vandalise the railings near the reservoir to get steel and other valuables.
“We’ve got the Friends of the Magalies, people making use of those trails to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature and for hiking, [and] now when it gets ruined, they won’t be able to use it,” she said.
She also said it poses a security risk to locals who live near the mountain where the reservoir is located.
“Residents do not feel safe because these individuals will then move up in the lanes where they [residents] are staying, to get access to the mountain,” she said.
Randall added that the matter is not just about stolen property, but also a threat to the residents’ clean environment.
“Residents spend a lot of money from their own pockets to safeguard the initial entrance and maintain the gardens at their own cost to keep it neat,” she said.
She said that the matter has been reported to the metro several times, with no results.
Resident Barend du Plessis shared his frustration regarding damage to the reservoir, saying, “We depend on this reservoir for water supply. I have logged reports on the platform many times regarding damage to the infrastructure, but never got a response,” he said.
He highlighted that there was no sign warning against unauthorised entry, and that this may have led to vagrants and children accessing the premises.
“This has led to damage to the infrastructure. Recently, a fire was [started] on top of the reservoir and that is a serious safety risk,” he said.
He urged the metro to take urgent action to secure the reservoir.
“They should ensure that the gate is properly closed after access, and place a clear warning sign to prevent unauthorised entry,” he said.
In response to the growing concerns, metro spokesperson Lindela Mashigo stated that the metro was not aware of issues at the Villieria Reservoir.
“The city is working closely with law enforcement agencies to investigate the theft and vandalism activities.
“The city will conduct joint operations with law enforcement agencies to combat infrastructure crime,” he said.
Mashigo further said the metro is prioritising infrastructure protection regularly, highlighting constant security reviews.
“The metro has in place measures to safeguard infrastructure, which include security protocols and security assessments by the TMPD… on all its infrastructure, including the Villieria Reservoir,” he confirmed.
He encouraged residents to work together with law enforcement agencies to prevent and combat infrastructure crimes by reporting suspicious activities.
ALSO READ: Align school subjects with future careers, Mamelodi learners told at career expo
Do you have more information about the story?
Please send us an email to bennittb@rekord.co.za or phone us on 083 625 4114.
For free breaking and community news, visit Rekord’s websites: Rekord East
For more news and interesting articles, like Rekord on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram or TikTok.
