Midvaal expands Kookrus Cemetery to create more burial space

Midvaal Local Municipality has completed the extension of the Kookrus Cemetery at a cost of more than R7 million, creating additional burial space for residents.

The project, which began in 2022, was undertaken to address growing demand for burial space as the municipality's existing active cemeteries in Kookrus and Meyerton are now about 90% full.

The extension includes new service roads, an ablution block and landscaping, while a dedicated caretaker will be appointed to oversee the cemetery's cleanliness and maintenance.

According to the municipality, the extended cemetery is expected to provide sufficient burial capacity for at least the next six years based on the current mortality rate.

The project included feasibility studies and the appointment of a professional consultant to undertake the designs required for the cemetery extension.

Midvaal Executive Mayor Peter Teixeira said the municipality recognised the importance of cemeteries to families and communities during the difficult process of laying loved ones to rest.

The municipality said the extension forms part of its planning to ensure adequate burial capacity is available as the population's needs grow.

It said the investment was also intended to ensure that cemetery facilities are properly maintained and provide residents with a dignified environment in which to bury their loved ones.

“ We recognise the importance of cemeteries to families and communities when laying their loved ones to rest,” the municipality said.

“This is why we are proactively investing in ensuring adequate burial space and the ongoing maintenance of these facilities.”