Tshwane Residents Raise Concerns Over Delayed Backfilling of Trenches After Infrastructure Repairs
Leaving Unfilled Trenches After Water Pipe Repairs: Residents of Newlands and Constantia Park are growing increasingly frustrated with the City of Tshwane’s failure to backfill trenches after repairing water pipes. Some trenches have remained open for months, posing safety hazards and disrupting daily life in these suburbs.
Long-Standing Trenches Remain Unfilled
Ward 83 Councillor Andrew Lesch has highlighted specific areas where backfilling has been delayed, including Anthony Street and Kassia Avenue in Newlands, as well as John Scott Street in Constantia Park.
“Tshwane has to be chased to fix water leaks, and then we have to chase them again to backfill the trenches,” Lesch said.
One of the most concerning cases involves a trench on Kassia Avenue, where a burst pipe was repaired three months ago, but the hole remains open. Similarly, in Anthonie Street, another trench has been left unfilled for over six months.
City of Tshwane Responds to Backlog
Tshwane metro spokesperson Lindela Mashigo acknowledged the backlog of open trenches and stated that delays are due to multiple factors, including continuous pipe bursts and heavy rainfall.
“The turnaround time for backfilling is seven days; however, the recent rainy season has resulted in delays,” Mashigo said.
To speed up the process, Tshwane has assigned additional teams to assist with both infrastructure repairs and backfilling. According to Mashigo, the city follows a set procedure: trenches are barricaded for safety, a work order is created, and a team is dispatched to complete the backfilling.
Frustration Grows Among Residents
Despite these explanations, residents remain frustrated by the city’s slow response. Open trenches not only create inconvenience but also pose safety risks, especially for pedestrians and motorists.
Residents are calling on Tshwane officials to expedite the process and ensure that trenches are backfilled promptly after repairs are completed.
Also read: Parts of Tshwane to Experience 8-Hour Water Interruption on Thursday, 3 April 2025
