Ward 93 residents vent frustrations over power, illegal taxi ranks, and informal settlements
The recent community meeting, arranged by Ward 93 councillor Vino Reddy, allowed residents to air their grievances with city entities, even though some didn't attend.
Ward 93 councillor Vino Reddy recently hosted a community meeting, bringing together residents to discuss pressing concerns affecting their neighbourhood.
The meeting, held on March 11 at Rivonia Recreational Club, Paulshof, addressed various issues, including malfunctioning traffic lights, recurring power outages, informal settlements, illegal taxi ranks, and rising crime levels.
Reddy expressed satisfaction with the productive discussion and enthusiastic participation, but disappointment with Eskom’s absence. “I haven’t confirmed the number yet, with my ward governance administrator, but 50 to 60 people is a fair number, in terms of a weekday, rainy-night, public meeting. The residents had questions to ask, because they’re affected by the service delivery challenges that are being faced in the city.”
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Representatives from Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) and Johannesburg Water (JW) attended, acknowledging residents’ concerns and committing to follow-up actions.
JRA addressed traffic light and pothole issues, presenting a plan of action. JW showed remorse for outstanding complaints and committed to resolving them.
The City of Johannesburg (CoJ) Human Settlement Department provided an update on informal settlements, although residents expressed frustration with the slow progress. Reddy emphasised the importance of accountability and follow-through. “The issues are being addressed at a regional level, and, hopefully, we’ll have a plan of action on that… Because part of our responsibilities, as councillors, is to escalate issues. We also report, but things are not getting done.”
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Eskom’s absence remained a concern, leaving power-related issues unresolved. “Eskom accepted the invitation, but did not attend. There’s ongoing problems with Eskom, and people need to see a face and have some feedback,” Reddy said.
The meeting also addressed taxi-related issues, including an informal taxi rank, and drivers contravening traffic laws. The CEO of Netcare complained about taxis disrupting helicopter landings, creating safety concerns.
“It is a valid point that the CEO of Netcare has raised. We are creating an environment where we are not addressing many issues, and Gauteng Transport, not being here, is even more frustrating for the residents.” Reddy said.
Residents expressed frustration with the lack of progress on these issues. “The primary take from the meeting was that the residents are being offered lip service by the entities, and they are tired of being told something is being done, yet time goes by and nothing gets done,” Reddy said.
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The meeting concluded with a plan for quarterly follow-up meetings to ensure progress on the issues raised. Reddy remains committed to holding the relevant entities accountable and ensuring that residents’ concerns are addressed.
As the meeting came to a close, Reddy reiterated the importance of community involvement and participation. “We need to work together to address these issues and create a better living environment for all residents,” he said.
The quarterly follow-up meetings will provide a platform for residents to track progress, and hold entities accountable.
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