The City of Tshwane’s project to relocate the more than 700 households in Phomolong informal settlement, which were built along water, electricity and road servitudes has finally been concluded.

This is after a water pipe burst two weeks ago resulted in the death of two children and the serious damage of several shacks which were illegally built on a water servitude in Phomolong Ext 6. City officials with the assistance of local contractors had to work around the clock to relocate the families to a safer and permanent area in Nellmapius Ext 6.

Assistance at Nellmapius X6

To date, 66 chemical toilets and water tankers which are constantly being refilled are being provided. As a temporary measure, the City in conjunction with Putco Bus Services is providing transport from the new area for children to their respective schools.

Plans are at an advanced stage to have communal water taps installed as soon as possible. The City is also busy with the installation of highmast streetlights and the development of designs for services.

Public open spaces have been demarcated and the Municipality will be developing a recreational park for the children and each beneficiary will receive a fruit tree to plant in their yards – to give them that green effect.

The site for a primary school has been identified and will be sub-divided to include an early childhood development centre.

Waste refuse bags are to be provided and collected weekly as a temporary measure to keep the area clean.

Future for Phomolong informal settlement

With regards to the servitude area at Phomolong, the City will be fencing it off and declare it a construction site. There are plans to build a new bulk water pipe in November and also rehabilitate it into a green area.

The servitude line will now be strictly adhered to while the Phomolong area will be demarcated and formalised.