Note to Editors: Please find attached English and Afrikaans soundbites by Cllr René Steyn and Sesotho soundbite by David Masoeu MPL. See attached pictures here, here, here, here, here, and here.
The DA will continue to oversee the ongoing sinkhole and sewage crisis at the corner of Hermina and Romeo Streets, and will seek urgent intervention from Matjhabeng Local Municipality to make the area safe, stop raw sewage discharge, and secure a permanent solution for Bedelia residents.
The sinkhole, situated at the premises used by a religious congregation, has reportedly persisted for approximately three to four years despite being reported to Matjhabeng Local Municipality on numerous occasions. The property has become so dangerous that the congregation has had to relocate.
The surrounding community is also facing an ongoing sewage problem. Raw sewage is reportedly being pumped into the veld between 1 and 21 Romeo Street daily. Concerns remain that damaged or collapsed stormwater infrastructure may be contributing to blockages and failures within the sewer network.
These conditions pose an unacceptable risk to residents, churchgoers, nearby properties and the environment.
DA Ward 33 Candidate Claudia Doig has conducted several oversight visits to document the extent of the problem and escalate it to the relevant authorities.
On 25 August 2026, the site was inspected, and drone footage was obtained to record the affected area. A further oversight visit took place on 7 September 2026 with DA Member of Parliament George Michalakis. On 11 September 2026, Doig returned to the site with the Municipal Speaker and officials from the municipality’s engineering and infrastructure departments.
Despite repeated reports, oversight visits and municipal engagements, residents are still waiting for decisive action and a permanent solution. Residents cannot be expected to live alongside a dangerous sinkhole and the daily discharge of raw sewage. This matter has been reported repeatedly, yet the community continues to suffer the consequences of years of municipal neglect.
Ward 33 does not need another inspection followed by silence. Residents need the municipality to identify the cause, make the area safe, repair the failed infrastructure and provide a clear implementation timeline.
The DA calls on Matjhabeng Local Municipality to:
- Secure the affected area immediately to protect residents and members of the public;
- Conduct a comprehensive technical assessment of the sinkhole and surrounding infrastructure;
- Stop the discharge of raw sewage into the veld;
- Repair the affected stormwater and sewer infrastructure;
- Rehabilitate the contaminated area; and
- Provide the community with a written repair plan and clear completion dates.
The DA will continue monitoring the matter and pursuing the responsible departments until residents receive a permanent and accountable solution.