Blocked drains frustrate residents

Residents have laid several complaints with the Polokwane Municipality about the state of storm water drains in the city.

July 9, 2015

Riana Joubert 1 minute read

Municipal workers clean out a storm water drain in Grobler Street.

POLOKWANE – Residents have laid several complaints with the Polokwane Municipality about the state of storm water drains in the city.

Complaints included drain covers that had collapsed into the drains and prevented the water from flowing, sand blocking the drain opening and storm water often flooding into residents’ gardens and sometimes even shops.

Review investigated and found that rubbish that was dumped in the drains blocked them.

“Some residents are recklessly dumping their refuse into the storm water drains, causing major blockage and those who stay close to these drains are affected negatively,” said a resident, Jannie Bothma.

Municipal spokesperson, Tidimalo Chuene, urged residents to dispose of their refuse by using the facilities provided by the municipality.

She said the municipality was currently busy with a project to clean not only the city streets, but to unblock drains in the process.

“Refuse removal is done weekly, so there is no need for refuse to be dumped illegally,” Chuene said.

She reminded residents that people found guilty of illegal dumping could be fined up to R1 000.

Matters regarding roads and storm water can be reported to (015) 290 2372, while matters involving refuse removal can be reported to (015) 290 2366/7.