Alberton’s infrastructure crisis: Vandalism, non-functional traffic lights, new city response

Residents in Alberton and its surrounding areas have long battled with non-functional traffic lights and rampant streetlight vandalism – a crisis that has turned daily commutes into hazardous ordeals.

Motorists have faced months of disruption, with criminals using grinders to cut down traffic and streetlights, leaving major routes in darkness and creating dangerous driving conditions.

One of the worst-affected areas is Swartkoppies Road, where traffic lights have reportedly been out of order since December 2024.

“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,” said one frustrated road user.

The same resident expressed puzzlement over the apparent inaction despite police often directing traffic and the City of Ekurhuleni’s energy department being located on the road.

The issue isn’t confined to traffic lights alone. Residents have also reported a dramatic rise in streetlight vandalism along key corridors including Kliprivier Road toward the Mall of the South and the highway leading to Bedfordview.

Criminals are reportedly using grinders to remove vital components from poles, plunging entire areas into darkness and significantly increasing the risk of accidents and crime.

“I am shocked to notice all this. What are the police doing about this?” asked a concerned local.

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.

Now, City spokesperson Zweli Dlamini has provided some much-needed updates:

• Enhanced patrols: The city has requested increased EMPD patrols on high-risk streets to deter vandalism. In addition, supply cables for streetlights on major roads have been moved overhead to prevent further damage.

• Jurisdictional escalation: Incidents along major routes such as Kliprivier Road and the highway toward Bedfordview, which are classified as provincial and national roads, have been escalated to the appropriate authorities.

• Community involvement: The city is appealing to the public to act as “eyes and ears” by reporting suspicious activities, thereby aiding efforts to curb the rising trend of vandalism and theft.

• Repairs and replacements: Vandalised streetlights are being replaced; however, the process depends on funds. Zweli Dlamini emphasised that the ongoing vandalism and theft are setbacks for the city, urging a collective effort to address the issue.

• Future communications: Updates on measures to improve safety and security in the affected areas will be communicated through the City’s Communications and Marketing Department as they become available.

While these measures signal a proactive response from the City of Ekurhuleni, residents should remain vigilant and hopeful that decisive action will restore functionality and safety to Alberton’s streets.

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