Operational issues plague Tongaat Crematorium despite R6 million repairs
An inspection of the Tongaat Crematorium reveals serious operational and structural defects, raising concerns about the quality of repairs and the facility's ability to serve grieving families.
A recent inspection of Tongaat Crematorium in Durban has revealed significant operational and structural issues, despite millions spent on repairs. The facility, which had been closed for three years due to broken furnaces, reopened on June 19 after R6 million in repairs. However, concerns remain about the quality of the project and its ability to provide dignified service to grieving families.
Mayor Cyril Xaba officially reopened the crematorium, but DA Councillor Yogis Govender warns that the project's value for money is questionable. Smokestack repairs have exposed large holes in the brickwork, and the furnace only reaches 700°C to 800°C, far below the previous 1,000°C furnace, resulting in incomplete cremations and manual intervention.
The new furnace also requires a one-hour preheating cycle, extending individual cremations to about two hours and drastically reducing the facility's daily capacity. Only three cremations had taken place weeks after reopening, raising questions about the structural integrity of the furnace. The DA also points out the absence of firebrick insulation between the furnace lining and the cast-iron outer casing.
Govender has written to city officials to request an independent investigation and comprehensive report into the recommissioning of the Tongaat Crematorium, emphasizing that ratepayers deserve safe, reliable, and dignified services.
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