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The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Dihlabeng Local Municipality remains concerned about the deteriorating condition of the fire station in Bethlehem. This critical issue poses a significant risk to both the lives of our dedicated firefighters and the safety of our community.

Despite our repeated reports highlighting this urgent matter, the ANC-led municipality has shown no signs of taking action or initiating repairs. It is disheartening that the safety of our firefighters and the proper functioning of the fire station have been neglected.

The dire state of the fire station suggests that the municipality’s responsibilities in terms of fire safety, rescue, emergency services and disaster management - as outlined in their Integrated Development Plan - have not been prioritized.

The DA will continue to advocate for the people of Dihlabeng, especially during the dry winter season when the risk of fires escalates. We have persistently called for an oversight visit by the authorities to the Bethlehem fire station to assess the situation and address the pressing issues. Regrettably, we have yet to receive any feedback or confirmation of a scheduled visit. This inaction is simply unacceptable and places our community in jeopardy.

The DA demands immediate action to ensure the repair and restoration of the fire station in Bethlehem, ensuring the safety of our firefighters and the protection of our residents. We will continue to fight tirelessly on behalf of the people of Dihlabeng, holding the authorities accountable and safeguarding our community from potential disasters.

Issued by Estie Senekal - DA Councillor Dihlabeng Local Municipality