The lack of barrier fencing along the R24 is yet again in the spotlight after several informal off-ramps were constructed along the R24 westbound.

According to Ward 92 Clr Kade Guerreiro, the three informal off-ramps connecting the R24 to Herman Street were constructed by a local taxi association, although it is unknown which one.

“The taxi association even put down tar, and when the G20 dry run occurred, it was absolute bedlam.

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“It was absolute chaos – everyone was making use of the impromptu off-ramps,” said Guerreiro.

He said the informal off-ramps not only cause congestion but also pose a significant safety risk.

“Imagine you are travelling at 120km/h down the freeway, and you have to brake suddenly because another vehicle is trying to exit where they shouldn’t be.”

To prevent motorists from using the illegal off-ramps, local businesses in the area joined forces and erected poles to block the path.

“We need the separation between the freeway and the suburban roads,” emphasised Guerreiro.

He added that in recent weeks, a large portion of the Armco barriers along Minuach Road had been removed.

Under the suspicion that they were stolen, Guerreiro said the lack of a barrier between the R24 eastbound and Minuach Road creates a safety concern for residents of Highway Gardens and commuters.

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He also highlighted that there are portions of the R24 that remain unlit due to non-functioning Apollo lights.

Another issue caused by the lack of fencing, he said, is the number of pedestrians crossing the freeway.

“The last thing we need is for somebody to get struck by a vehicle or injured while attempting to cross the freeway.”

Guerreiro added that because of the lack of fencing, taxis and transport vehicles stop along the highway to pick up or drop off commuters, pedestrians cross freely, and properties have become more vulnerable to criminals who use the highway as a quick getaway.

According to Guerreiro, reasons for the lack of barrier fencing include vehicle collisions, metal theft and inadequate maintenance.

He appealed to the Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport for greater assistance in maintaining the barrier fencing, replacing Armco barriers and restoring lighting along the R24.

A request for comment was sent to the department, which confirmed it was working on a response for the NEWS.
At the time of going to print, no comment had been received.