Motorists count the cost as massive potholes on Winnie-Mandela finally get attention
Ward 94 Councillor David Foley says he is relieved and encouraged to see repairs finally underway on the busy stretch after sustained pressure on provincial authorities.
The dangerous potholes on Winnie-Mandela Drive have come under the spotlight after weeks of complaints from frustrated motorists, with Ward 94 councillor David Foley warning that the damage caused to vehicles could run into hundreds of thousands of rand.
Speaking on-site on April 30, Foley described the ‘crater’ under the Witkoppen bridge on the same road as one of several hazardous potholes along the busy provincial route, particularly difficult to detect when filled with rainwater or hidden in the shade.
Read more: Johannesburg Roads Agency ready to reinstate Balder Road, weather permitting
“This is a massive pothole. We’ve had many complaints about this and others in the area. When it rains, they fill with water, and because of the shade, you can’t actually see them. The damage to vehicles from this one alone could be between R250 000 and R400 000.”
According to Foley, repeated engagements with provincial authorities have finally yielded results, with contractors now on-site to begin repairs.
The road has been sectioned off, and work is expected to improve safety for daily commuters who rely on the route.
“This is one of many, but today we’re seeing action.
The provincial roads department has pushed contractors to come out and restore the road. Hopefully, once completed, this stretch will be safe again.”
Also read: Bryan Brook Estate leak repair underway after two-year delay
The issue, however, is not isolated. Foley said that several major routes in the area fall under provincial jurisdiction, including Winnie-Mandela Drive, Cedar Road, Witkoppen Road, Main Road, and the R55 — and not the Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA), which often leads to confusion among residents reporting road damage.
Despite the jurisdictional divide, Foley stressed that ongoing pressure would continue to be applied to ensure roads are maintained and motorists protected.
Meanwhile, the risks posed by neglected potholes were further underscored by a recent incident in Fourways, where a vehicle struck the pothole under the bridge so severely that it ripped off its tyre.
The department was contacted for comment on April 15. King Mthombeni from the department said they had relayed the email to the line unit for response.
Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration!
