The City of Ekurhuleni is facing mounting criticism after failing to provide clear answers on persistent traffic light failures and deteriorating road conditions, with Ward 38 councillor Thavha Maifala-Masebe accusing officials of evading accountability.

The concerns follow a written question tabled during a council meeting held on March 10 in Germiston, where the MMC for Roads and Transport Planning, Clr Lindiwe Mnguni, was asked to clarify whether the metro has a formal service-level agreement with the Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport.

However, instead of providing a direct response, the MMC reportedly referred broadly to cooperative initiatives such as the “G13+1 campaign” announced by Panyaza Lesufi, without confirming whether any formal agreement exists or outlining clear responsibilities for maintaining provincial infrastructure within the metro.

Maifala-Masebe described the response as inadequate, warning that the lack of clarity continues to affect residents who face daily risks from failing infrastructure.

“This is not just an administrative issue; it is a public safety concern,” he said.

One of the most pressing examples is the long-standing malfunction of traffic lights at the intersection of the R59 and Swartkoppies Road in Alberton.

The busy junction serves thousands of commuters and the absence of functioning signals has resulted in severe congestion, dangerous driving conditions, and increased risks for both motorists and pedestrians.

According to the councillor, several critical questions remain unanswered, including whether a formal agreement exists between the city and provincial authorities, why persistent issues such as potholes and faulty traffic signals are not resolved promptly, and what steps are being taken to formalise cooperation if no such agreement is in place.

Residents, he added, should not be left to navigate unsafe roads due to uncertainty between different spheres of government.

The issue extends beyond a single intersection.

Swartkoppies Road has been particularly hard hit, with traffic lights reportedly out of order since December 2024.

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Motorists describe daily peak-hour traffic as chaotic, with gridlock and near-miss incidents becoming commonplace.

While officers from the EMPD are often deployed to manage traffic, residents say this offers only temporary relief, with little visible progress on permanent repairs.

Compounding the problem is a surge in vandalism targeting traffic and streetlight infrastructure.

Residents have reported criminals using power tools to strip poles of valuable components, leaving major routes in darkness.

Damage has been noted along key roads, including Kliprivier Road, routes leading to the Mall of the South, and the highway to Bedfordview, raising concerns not only about road safety but also about increased opportunities for crime.

Maifala-Masebe has vowed to continue pressing for answers and action, stating that residents deserve reliable infrastructure, safer roads, and a responsive, accountable government.

“As the ward councillor in Alberton, I will not relent until our communities see meaningful change,” he said.

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