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The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Kopanong Local Municipality is deeply concerned about the increasing dangers posed to residents due to roaming animals in the area. In recent weeks, there have been multiple incidents of livestock wandering onto busy roads, causing accidents and endangering human lives.

One such incident occurred on the main street of Colesberg, where a vehicle collided with a stray cattle resulting in significant damage to both the vehicle and the animal. This highlights the urgent need for effective measures to be put in place to prevent animals from roaming and endangering motorists. Please see pictures here, here, here and here.

Furthermore, due to the recent light tornado, the lack of functioning street lights in Philippolis is exacerbating the problem. Without proper lighting, drivers are unable to see animals on the road, which could lead to further accidents and fatalities.

The root cause of the roaming animals’ problem can be traced back to an order by the ANC in January to remove the communal grounds fence. The fence was then relocated behind the municipality offices but was subsequently taken down to fence off a spinning track at the behest of the ANC. Following the completion of the track, the wire and poles were removed, leaving the animals free to roam the town and pose a risk to residents.

The DA calls on the municipality to urgently address this issue and take responsibility for residents' safety. The municipality must put measures in place to secure communal grounds and prevent animals from roaming. We also call on the municipality to urgently repair the street lights in Philippolis, ensuring the safety of motorists and pedestrians alike.

It is unacceptable that residents are exposed to such dangers due to the neglect of the municipality. The DA will continue to hold the municipality accountable and will work tirelessly to ensure that residents’ basic needs are met, including their safety and security.

Issued by Estelle Noordman - DA Councillor Kopanong Local Municipality