Note to Editors: Please find attached English and Sesotho soundbites by Cllr Sello Mokoena and Afrikaans soundbite by Cllr Hilton Maasdorp. See attached picture here.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Dihlabeng will write to the municipal manager to urgently address the unfenced railway tracks in Bohlokong, as they have become a safety hazard for scholars.
These tracks are being used daily by children who cannot afford school transport, as they walk to and from school. The absence of fencing, signage, and protective infrastructure has created a dangerous environment where children’s safety is at stake.
We are committed to safeguarding communities and advocating for the rights of vulnerable groups, particularly children.
We believe that the safety of children must be prioritised above all else. No child should have to risk their life to access education.
We call for immediate intervention by the Dihlabeng Municipality, in collaboration with Transnet, the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA), and other relevant authorities. The following measures must be implemented without delay:
- Fencing of railway tracks: Secure fencing must be erected along all sections of railway tracks adjacent to residential areas in Bohlokong.
- Safe pedestrian crossings: Designated crossings with proper signage and safety features must be established where necessary to allow safe passage.
- Community awareness campaigns: Educational initiatives should be launched to inform residents, especially children, about railway safety.
- Collaboration with schools: Schools in Bohlokong must be engaged to ensure that children are taught safe practices and are provided with alternatives to walking along railway tracks.
- Provision of scholar transport: The municipality must explore subsidies or partnerships to provide affordable scholar transport for children from low-income households.
The DA calls upon the Municipal Manager of Dihlabeng Municipality to:
- Convene an urgent meeting with relevant stakeholders, including Transnet, PRASA, the Department of Transport, and community representatives.
- Commission a safety audit of all railway tracks within residential areas of Bohlokong.
- Allocate budgetary resources to fencing and safety infrastructure as a matter of priority.
- Report publicly on progress made, with clear timelines and accountability mechanisms.
We will continue to monitor this situation closely and will hold the municipality accountable for its response. We stand with the Bohlokong community in demanding safety, dignity, and justice.