Granite theft kept in check at local cemetery
The cemetery regulations in terms of Section 26 of the KZN Cemeteries and Crematoria Act, require that a cemetery must be fenced
THANKS to adequate security systems in place at the regional cemetery in Empangeni, it has not fallen victim to granite theft to the same extent experienced at many others in the province.
This follows a recent statement by Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) that KZN cemeteries have been heavily affected by granite theft, are reaching maximum capacity and have inadequate security systems in place.
‘It must be noted that the King Cetshwayo District Municipality is only responsible for the regional cemetery at Empangeni Rail. All other cemeteries are managed by local municipalities,’ said King Cetshwayo Public Relations Manager, Rekha Naidoo.
‘The cemetery regulations in terms of Section 26 of the KZN Cemeteries and Crematoria Act, require that a cemetery must be fenced.
‘Regulation 6 states that a cemetery shall be properly fenced with suitable gates erected at convenient places, and all fences and gates be kept in good order and repair.
‘The King Cetshwayo regional cemetery complies with these regulations, and our cemetery is completely fenced off, with secure gates that control entry and exit points,’ said Naidoo.
‘The cemetery also has 24-hour security. The municipality is investigating the addition of overhead lights to augment the current ones, especially to accommodate burials that take place after hours.’
Visiting the facility on Wednesday, it appeared to be well managed, with municipal workers cutting the grass.
A number of slumping grave sites, some with missing and damaged headstones, were noticeable however.
According to a cemetery worker, the sunken graves are a result of eroded coffins, but these could not be fixed or tampered with until families have given permission.
‘Based on the current budget, the municipality is able to provide a high level of service to it’s residents, as well as maintain an aesthetically pleasing, dignified burial space for the people of the district,’ said Naidoo.
She added that the cemetery was not near it’s capacity.
‘The first phase accommodated 5 804 burial sites and the second phase is less than 40% utilised.
‘We are guided by the current burial statistics, population growth and the rate of the utilisation of the cemetery, and at the present time there is no need for additional space to be sourced.’
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