Metro responds to councillors’ concerns over open trenches

The Tshwane metro has stated that the normal turnaround time for closing of trenches is 14 days, but they may be left open for longer if repairs become complicated.

This as Ward 44 Councillor Samantha de la Rey slammed the metro for leaving open trenches in parts of Faerie Glen and Garsfontein for prolonged periods after water repairs.

De La Rey said the the open trenches pose a daily hazard, particularly for children, the elderly, and pedestrians who must navigate around them.

“I am really concerned as this seems to be a pattern from Tshwane.”

De La Rey said that despite repeated reports and appeals, the only response from officials has been ‘noted’, with no concrete action taken to address the risks.

“The community stresses that this ongoing inaction not only endangers lives but also undermines residents’ right to essential, reliable services.”

She added that residents cannot continue to live in an environment where their safety is compromised and concerns dismissed.

“We demand immediate intervention and accountability to resolve these hazards before tragedy strikes.”

A resident in on Aurelia Street, in Garsfontein, Albert van der Westhuizen, said the metro has open left huge trenches next to his house since May.

“Tshwane started digging up our street in May for no apparent reason. They would work for a week, then disappear for another week, leaving huge holes in the sidewalks, driveways, and gardens.”

He said it’s been months now since anyone has been here, the job has come to a halt, and the new pipes they installed aren’t even connected.

“Despite numerous emails, WhatsApps, and attempts to contact the officials, and councillor, we have received no real answers.”

Van der Westhuizen said every follow-up is met with vague promises, like ‘we are coming tomorrow’ or ‘it’s been escalated.’
“Nothing changes, and we are left with open trenches that are dangerous for children, pedestrians, and motorists.

“We don’t know why this work was done, when it will be completed, or if the pipes will ever be connected. At this stage, I’m considering hiring builders to fill the holes myself because clearly nothing will be done,” he explained.

He said the metro could have at least informed residents about the plan from the start, instead of disappearing and leaving their street in this unsafe condition.

Metro spokesperson Lindela Mashigo said some of the trenches in Aurelia were excavated on August 20 by the water distribution team and were left properly safeguarded.

“All trenches are barricaded to ensure the safety of children, the elderly, and pedestrians,” he explained.

“Municipal contractors are instructed to backfill trenches after each work phase. However, trenches may remain temporarily open after repairs to allow wet ground to dry before backfilling and compacting, in accordance with the city’s standard operating procedure,” Mashigo explained.

“Each affected area should be restored to a safe and usable condition within this timeframe, unless unforeseen factors cause delays.”
He said regarding damages to driveways and gardens caused by prolonged excavations, residents may submit claims to the city.

The city’s third-party claim form is available on the Tshwane website and at Tshwane House, Ground Floor, Room GL36. Email submissions are also accepted at claims@tshwane.gov.za.

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