WATCH: Provincial official steps in as traffic chaos worsens in Alberton

As frustration mounts over ongoing traffic chaos, malfunctioning traffic lights, and an increasing number of accidents, the City of Ekurhuleni has clarified that it bears no responsibility for the intersection at the R59 off-ramp and Swartkoppies Road.

This follows questions posed to the City regarding the repair of traffic lights at the problematic junction.

The intersection has become a hotspot for confusion and danger, with reports of motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians injured due to the lack of traffic control.

@albertonrecordA collision between a taxi and a bakkie on the Swartkoppies Road off-ramp in Alberton has caused significant traffic delays on April 8. The incident occurred near the intersection leading from Newmarket toward Brackenhurst and Brackendowns. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported.♬ original sound – Alberton Record

In an article shared by the Alberton Record in April, eyewitnesses described the area as a “free-for-all”, especially during morning peak hours, as frustrated drivers create their own lanes, worsening congestion and increasing the risk of collisions.

The traffic lights at this intersection have reportedly been out of order for an extended period, with no clear timeline given for repairs.

Other major routes, including Kliprivier Road and the highway towards Bedfordview, are also affected by non-functional traffic lights, contributing to further incidents and danger.

These roads, along with the R59 and Swartkoppies Road, are classified as provincial or national roads.

@albertonrecord Traffic lights on the intersection of the R554 and Potgieter, in #Alberton ♬ original sound – Alberton Record

Responsibility for their maintenance lies with the Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport.

On June 20, Evert Phillipus du Plessis, a member of the Gauteng Provincial Legislature’s Transport and Logistics Committee, visited Alberton to address public concerns.

He was invited by Ward 106 councillor Tim Denny, who met him at Voortrekker Road, where traffic lights were also not working.

@albertonrecordCouncillor Tim Denny and Evert Phillipus du Plessis, a member of the Gauteng Provincial Legislature’s Transport and Logistics Committee. As frustration mounts over ongoing traffic chaos, malfunctioning traffic lights, and an increasing number of accidents, the City of Ekurhuleni has clarified that it bears no responsibility for the intersection at the R59 off-ramp and Swartkoppies Road. This follows questions posed to the City regarding the repair of traffic lights at the problematic junction.♬ original sound – Alberton Record

Councillor Denny identified several problem intersections. He confirmed that seven sets of traffic lights are currently out at the R59 off-ramp onto Swartkoppies Road, four sets on Voortrekker Road (particularly where it crosses the N12), and three more at Nelson Mandela Avenue and Swartkoppies Road.

He emphasised that these intersections fall under provincial jurisdiction, which limits the authority of local councillors to act directly.

“Many of you know that we have intersections across Alberton, like Swartkoppies and Jacqueline, that fall under the province,” said Denny.

“As councillors, we don’t have the authority to fix them. That’s why we brought a provincial representative to see the seriousness of the situation firsthand. The number of accidents is unacceptable, and we are doing our best to get the lights restored.”

Du Plessis acknowledged the scale of the problem. “Tim contacted me and asked me to come and have a look.

There are about 365 traffic lights in Gauteng under provincial control. We have had major challenges maintaining them due to budget constraints, although additional funding has recently been allocated.”

He also emphasised the need for collaboration. “We need involvement from Public Safety and SAPS. As a member of the Legislature, I will be putting questions to the MEC and Head of Department to determine when these traffic lights will be repaired and what the long-term maintenance plan is.”

As the situation remains unresolved, residents are urged to approach affected intersections with extreme caution while representatives push for urgent intervention.