Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ), is calling on families to inspect graves of loved ones, after recent floods.
Azola Manyati of City Parks and Zoo, said most active cemeteries in Johannesburg are affected, including Avalon in Soweto, Waterval Cemetery in Midrand, Olifantsvlei in the far south of the city, and Westpark Cemetery in Emmarentia.
“Olifantsvlei was the worst affected of all, in terms of sinking. Westpark is affected in terms of tombstones. So we need families to come forward and fix their tombstones and also refill their graves. They can let us know if there is no soil to backfill, we will provide” he said.
Jenny Moodley, Spokesperson of City Parks, said this is a global phenomenon, relative to increasing rainfall.
“As we enter the peak rainfall season, certain sections, particularly near more recent burials, will be susceptible to erosion, collapsed headstonesand sunken graves” said Moodley.
Families are responsible for the upkeep, reinstatement of headstones and safeguarding of gravesites.
Residents can help by:
1. Visiting the cemetery to inspect.
2. Identifying and reporting erosion, caving-in of graves, and collapsed headstones and tombstones.
3. Contacting the manager Cemeteries and Crematoria, Mr. Zolile Mpophoma, by calling 011 712 6600 or emailing zmpophoma@jhbcityparks.com.
4. Providing the following information:
• Cemetery name
• Name of the deceased
• Section where the grave is located
• Grave number
For more information and updates, please visit the JCPZ website at www.jhbcityparksandzoo.com.