A community initiative by the Sunninghill Residents and Ratepayers Association (SRRA) is helping combat a growing erosion problem on Tana Road, where volunteers are repurposing cement bags to reinforce a crumbling roadside.

Tracy Kensey from the association said the section of road has been affected by heavy stormwater runoff and taxis, causing the edge of the tar to erode and raising concerns about the long-term condition of the road.

Read more: JRA begins removing Lombardy Road rubble

Rather than waiting for the problem to worsen, SRRA members rolled up their sleeves and came up with an innovative solution using cement bags that had been donated to the association.

“We have quite a severe erosion problem with the tarmac falling away due to the water, as well as the taxis.

“We were given a whole lot of cement bags, so what we’ve been doing is digging them into the embankment, slitting them open and watering them. Once they settle, they help reinforce the bank,” said Kensey

The project stretches for about 50m along Tana Road, with workers Paul Mtika and Sabelo Mahlangu carefully placing the bags to stabilise the embankment and help prevent further erosion.

Also read: JRA say Hornbill Road repairs are 90% complete

According to Kensey, the method has already been used successfully in other parts of Sunninghill, making it a practical and cost-effective way to reduce erosion while more permanent infrastructure solutions are awaited.

Kensey said the project is not intended to replace permanent municipal repairs; it offers an effective interim solution that protects the road edge and improves safety for motorists.

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