The number of burials in Cape Town has significantly increased from over 300 in a week towards the end of June to 483 in the last week.
This is according to a statement issued by the City of Cape Town, which said that during the last week, Klip Road cemetery in Grassy Park had 151 burials, Maitland saw 126 while Welmoed cemetery had 76.
The nearly 500 burials in the last week are a stark reminder of the need for continued vigilance as Cape Town grapples with the impact of a third wave of Covid-19 infections
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The city’s mayoral committee member for Community Services and Health, councillor Zahid Badroodien cautioned that, “The increase in burials underscores the increase in Covid-19 infections and fatalities since the start of the third wave. For the moment, our cemeteries are able to cope with the increased demand, but we renew our appeal to residents to please consider burials on weekdays and where possible, to consider alternatives to burial.”
“We also ask that funeral organisers be mindful of the current regulations in terms of the number of attendees and time allowed at the cemetery. In recent weeks, the City’s Environmental Health Practitioners have expressed concern about the non-adherence to regulations at funerals.
“While memorial work can still continue if the relevant permits have been secured, unveiling ceremonies cannot be accommodated until further notice,” Badroodien added.
Meanwhile, the Western Cape reported 31 330 active Covid-19 infections, with a total number 367 827 confirmed cases and 322 448 recoveries as of Tuesday, July 20, as the latest provincial report indicates.
Here’s a breakdown of the province’s COVID-19 statistics:
- Total number of COVID-19 cases to date 367 827
- Total recoveries 322 448
- Total deaths 14 049
- Total active cases (currently infected patients) 31 330
- Tests conducted 1 940 168
- Hospitalisations 2880 of which 646 are in high care or ICU
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