Calls for social development dept intervention after Soweto teens discovered living in stormwater pipes
It’s understood that teenagers from the Tladi community took refuge in these pipes after fleeing home due to substance abuse and family issues.
Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi and Johannesburg Mayor Dada Morero at the Moletsane Sports Complex in Soweto as part of the city's Accelerated Service Deliver Programme. Picture: X/@GautengProvince
JOHANNESBUG - The City of Johannesburg has raised concern over people living in abandoned stormwater pipes on the banks of a stream in Soweto.
It’s understood that teenagers from the Tladi community took refuge in these pipes after fleeing home due to substance abuse and family issues.
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The Gauteng Roads and Transport Department has been assigned to remove the pipes, as they present a safety hazard to the community.
The pipes were discovered earlier on Friday during Johannesburg Mayor Dada Morero’s accelerated service delivery programme in Soweto.
‘INTIMIDATED AND ATTACKED’
On Ntshunyana Street in Tladi, directly across from the local community hall, several abandoned stormwater pipes have become a refuge for troubled teenagers.
Openings on either side of the pipes are covered with sheets and some with cardboard material, and sponge mattresses inside the pipes are used as beds.
Officials from the City of Joburg said they’ found ID documents in some of the pipes, and to their shock, the occupants were teenagers.
Gauteng Roads and Transport Department director, Motsamai Mahibila, said his teams were met with threats when they tried removing the pipes.
"We’ve had challenges where our teams are being intimidated and attacked. So those are some of the sensitivities our teams are faced with."
Joburg City Manager Floyd Brink said the Social Development Department needed to assist the teens.