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Storms devastate Johannesburg cemeteries as families are urged to check loved ones’ graves

Torrential rains have wreaked havoc across Johannesburg's cemeteries, prompting JCPZ to call on families to inspect graves affected by erosion and flooding.

In a poignant reminder of nature’s power, Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ) has issued a heartfelt appeal to families to inspect the graves of their loved ones following recent torrential rainfall. Significant flooding has been reported in several cemeteries across the city, resulting in grave subsidence and the collapse of headstones.

Read more: JRA asks motorists to be careful as summer rains bring floods

These extreme weather patterns are not isolated to Johannesburg. They reflect a global phenomenon linked to increasing rainfall, with meteorologists warning that this precarious situation is likely to persist until March. As the city enters its peak rainfall season, specific areas, especially those near more recent burials, are particularly susceptible to erosion, leading to collapsed headstones and sunken graves.

The cemeteries that have been most affected include Avalon Cemetery in Soweto, Waterval Cemetery in Midrand, Olifantsvlei Cemetery in the far south of the city, and Westpark Cemetery in Emmarentia.

While families hold the primary responsibility for the upkeep and reinstatement of headstones, JCPZ acknowledges the emotional significance of maintaining the integrity of these final resting places. The organisation is committed to assisting families in restoring gravesites and will only refill graves upon consent from the families involved.

Also read: Thousands of graves could be destroyed

Residents are encouraged to visit the cemeteries to identify and report instances of erosion, caving graves, and collapsed headstones. To facilitate this process, families can contact the manager of Cemeteries and Crematoria, Mr. Zolile Mpophoma, by calling 011 712 6600 or emailing zmpophoma@jhbcityparks.com. When reporting issues, it is essential to provide details such as the cemetery name, the deceased’s name, the section where the grave is located, and the grave number.

A spokesperson for JCPZ said: “Your co-operation in inspecting gravesites is essential in helping us maintain the beauty and dignity of the graves of your loved ones. We are committed to addressing concerns with utmost care and respect.”

For further information and updates, families and residents can visit the JCPZ website at jhbcityparksandzoo.com.

As the community comes together to face these challenges, there is hope that collaborative efforts will create a comforting environment for those remembering their dearly departed amid the distressing weather.

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Related article: JCPZ urges locals to play their part this World Environment Day

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Nelson Kgarose

Nelson Kgarose is a Multimedia sports journalist and Digital Content Creator specialising in sports and current municipal news. I mainly report on the sport of Mixed Martial Arts with a focus on accuracy and thorough analysis. My commitment to objectivity and detail shapes my writing. Outside of covering sports, I engage with trending local news and interact with fans on social media.

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