Alberton’s roads and streetlights in total collapse
Residents are demanding answers as traffic lights which remain out of order for months due to criminals using grinders to cut down traffic lights and streetlights.
Motorists in Alberton and surrounding areas are growing increasingly frustrated as non-functioning traffic lights and vandalised streetlights continue to pose safety risks.
One of the worst-affected areas is Swartkoppies Road, where traffic lights have reportedly been out of order since December 2024, leading to daily congestion and dangerous driving conditions.
“I use Swartkoppies Road every morning and afternoon, and the traffic lights have not been working for months. From the R59 off-ramp to Jacqueline Road it’s a nightmare.
“What I don’t understand is that police are often there to direct traffic, yet nothing seems to be done to fix the issue.
“Even more concerning is that the City of Ekurhuleni’s energy department is on the same road. Surely, they see the problem too,” said a frustrated road user.
Adding to the problem, residents have reported a shocking rise in streetlight vandalism, with criminals using grinders to cut down poles and strip valuable components.
This destruction has been observed along major roads, including Kliprivier Road towards the Mall of the South and the highway toward Bedfordview, leaving entire areas in darkness and increasing the risk of accidents and crime.
“I am shocked to notice all this. What are the police doing about this?” asked a concerned resident.
City of Ekurhuleni yet to respond
In response to growing concerns, Alberton Record sent an email to the City of Ekurhuleni’s spokesperson on March 12, requesting clarity on the issue.
The following questions were asked:
• What is the current status of the traffic lights on Swartkoppies Road? Are there any ongoing repair efforts, and what is the estimated timeline for completion?
• Why do traffic lights in various areas frequently malfunction, and is there a plan in place to address this issue?
• What measures are being taken to prevent the theft and destruction of streetlights and traffic lights, particularly the use of grinders to cut them down?
• Has the city implemented any initiatives to replace or secure stripped streetlights along major routes like Kliprivier Road and the highway toward Bedfordview?
• What actions are being taken to curb the rising trend of infrastructure theft and vandalism?
• How are local authorities, including the police, addressing these crimes? Is there a plan to increase patrols or implement additional security measures?
• What is the city doing to ensure that stolen or damaged infrastructure is replaced promptly?
At the time of publication, no response had been received from the City of Ekurhuleni.
Residents are now demanding urgent action to restore functionality to the affected traffic lights and to implement stronger security measures to prevent further infrastructure damage.
“All this is happening and it seems no one could care less about this,” said the resident.
