The City of Cape Town (COCT) has opened a new Muslim burial section at Maitland Cemetery on Monday, September 20. According to the COCT, the newly allocated space is in addition to the 800 burial plots that were made available earlier this year.
More than 600 burial plots have been assigned for use as the site was also assessed for the size of the grave plots and the orientation of each grave in the direction of the Qibla. Technical teams have also checked that the underground water table is at a level suitable for burials following winter rains.
Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Zahid Badroodien said that this is a significant milestone in the relationship between the City and the Muslim Judicial Council (MJC) in working together to ensure that the growing need for burial space is addressed.
“We have experienced a massive increase in demand for burials in the last year and a half, due to the Covid-19 pandemic, and the City is doing everything possible to assist communities and religious groupings in ensuring that we are able to accommodate their needs,” Badroodien adds.
Also read: COCT says it can keep up with the increasing demand for cremations
Badroodien went on to say that work is under way to identify suitable land for new cemeteries and additional space in existing cemeteries, and although the COCT encourages alternative burial methods and cremation, the City is mindful that traditional burial remains the preferred option for many, for religious and cultural reasons.
Meanwhile, the Western Cape reported 10 412 active COVID-19 infections, 516 701 confirmed cases and 486 686 recoveries as of Wednesday, September 22.
1/2 ?Update on the coronavirus and vaccines
As at 1pm on 22 September 2021, the Western Cape had 10 412 active COVID-19 infections, with a total number 516 701 COVID-19 cases to date and 486 686 recoveries.
Full statement: https://t.co/CFzjfhGspE pic.twitter.com/pLGaKsRmbK
— Premier Alan Winde (@alanwinde) September 22, 2021
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Picture: COCT