Posted By Own Staff Friday, 05 March 2010 01:34

Residents of Hillcrest suburb have expressed concern over tall grass that is a danger to motorists along the Hillside Road. It is now a blind spot for motorists as well as a hideout for criminals.

“We are now afraid of passing close to these thickets in the evening as we fear that they have now become a hiding place for criminals,” said Mr. Gunyane, a Hillcrest resident.

Martha Ndlovu of the same area indicated that the grass has made it difficult for drivers to see on-coming traffic and if kept in that state may lead to dangerous collisions.

“The grass around this area has grown so tall and the City Council has not done anything to cut the grass. I am a driver and sometimes it is very difficult to see oncoming traffic. We would all appreciate it if Council would cut the grass that has made visibility of on-coming traffic impossible at most intersections,” she said.

Another resident, Mr. Martin also said that  roads that feed into the main road such as Cecil Avenue, which is also situated close to the shopping centre need urgent attention as it is not only posing as a danger to drivers but also to children who use the roads while going to school.

“Roads that lead to main road intersections should be attended to urgently. Young children use the roads when sent by their parents to the shopping centre and also on their way to school. I appeal to the City Council to cut the grass as we never know who is hiding in the bushes and our children may get hit by drivers or get abducted by robbers,” said Mr Martin.

Mr Martin told the Weekly Agenda that he had witnessed slashing of the grass along the Hillside road although the project was not completed.

“There had been some activity along the Hillside Road with people cutting grass but this project was not completed and the community does not know why the City council did not complete the project,” said Mr Martin.

Councillor Jennifer Bent of Ward 6 said  Bulawayo councillors have taken the issue to the City Council following complaints from residents.

“The City Council has started cutting grass in areas around the city and even though the process is taking long they will soon reach the Hillcrest area. The City Council however is encouraging residents to slash their neighbourhoods as it does not have enough money to employ sufficient people to cater for their needs,” said Cllr Bent.