On August 20th, 2023, a section of road in Lavender Hill, Cape Town, collapsed beneath a refuse truck, causing it to sink. Photos and videos of the scene quickly spread through WhatsApp, prompting the City of Cape Town to respond urgently to the situation.
The Incident and Response
Alderman Grant Twigg, the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Urban Waste Management, confirmed that the refuse compactor truck was driving in Lavender Hill when the road suddenly gave way beneath it. Surprisingly, there was no apparent damage to the road surface beforehand. The City of Cape Town quickly implemented contingency measures to minimize disruption to refuse collection services in the area and offered counseling to staff members if required.
The City’s Water and Sanitation Directorate, led by Councillor Zahid Badroodien, is investigating the cause of the incident. The affected area has been cordoned off for safety reasons, with the main priority being to ensure the area is structurally safe for vehicle recovery. Once the vehicle is recovered, a thorough assessment will be conducted to determine the cause of the collapse, which is suspected to be a sewer collapse.
In addition to the Directorate’s efforts, the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the City’s Law Enforcement were called to the site. Councillor Badroodien urges residents to stay away from the area for their safety. This request applies not only during the vehicle recovery and assessment phase but also throughout the period of remedial work.
Jermaine Carelse, spokesperson for the City’s Fire and Rescue Service, reported that their department received the call about the truck stuck in the hole at approximately 09:05 on Monday, August 21st. A technical rescue vehicle with a crane and a crew from Wynberg were dispatched to remove the truck from the roadway. Unfortunately, an adult female sustained minor injuries during the incident and was taken to the hospital.
Ongoing Efforts
Given the truck’s considerable weight, another towing service was called in to assist in the recovery process. As of now, the efforts to remedy the situation remain ongoing.
The City’s Commitment to Safety
The City of Cape Town has displayed a commendable sense of urgency and responsibility in response to the incident. By prioritizing both the safety of its residents and the continuation of vital services, the city ensures that the aftermath of this unfortunate occurrence is managed efficiently and effectively.
The Public’s Role
As the investigation and remedial work progress, the City of Cape Town requests residents’ cooperation during this time. By respecting safety measures and staying clear of the affected area, the public can play a crucial role in ensuring a prompt resolution to this unexpected event.
While the exact cause of the road collapse remains undetermined, the city’s swift action in addressing the situation demonstrates its commitment to the well-being of its citizens.
