TO: All Media
ATTENTION: Journalists and Editors
ISSUED: Monday, 23 March 2026
Mogale City has completed Phase 1 of a critical drainage intervention at Kagiso Cemetery aimed at addressing persistent waterlogging that has affected burial operations and site conditions.
The intervention became urgent after waterlogging, initially estimated to affect 2.7 hectares, was found to have spread to additional north-western sections of the cemetery. The extent of the challenge was identified during routine operations, particularly when graves were excavated or when pre-booked double graves were reopened, revealing high groundwater levels.
To determine the source of the problem, the city’s Integrated Environmental Management department appointed civil engineers to conduct a hydro survey. This included site inspections and the excavation of test pits to assess soil conditions and identify areas of water ingress. Based on the findings, engineers recommended the installation of a subsoil drainage system to reduce water accumulation and stabilise the site.
Phase 1 of the project saw the installation of 390 meters of subsoil drainage pipes. The work included excavation to a depth of two metres, installation of a 110mm HDPE drainage system, construction of a drainage outlet structure, backfilling with river sand and a final site rehabilitation.
The overall project is valued at approximately R3 million, with R1 million allocated to and spent on Phase 1.
Beyond infrastructure improvement, the project also contributed to local economic development. Two local contractors were appointed, and six labourers were recruited from the surrounding community, creating short-term employment opportunities.
The municipality will proceed with Phase 2 once funding becomes available. The next phase will include the installation of an additional 1 000 metres of subsoil drainage pipes, completing an integrated drainage system designed to provide a long-term solution to waterlogging at the cemetry.