JRA says ‘dangerous potholes’ fixed by community are illegal
When city services fell behind, the Sunninghill community stepped up, repairing over 155 potholes and proving that unity can overcome infrastructure neglect. However, JRA says they needed their green light.
Sunninghill residents have taken matters into their own hands to repair dangerous potholes that have become a hazard for motorists.
The initiative, led by the Sunninghill Community Ratepayers Association, saw volunteers and residents band together to fix more than 155 potholes after multiple reports to Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) went unaddressed.
However, JRA’s Khayalethu Gqibitole stated that the agency did not permit any individual or entity to carry out work on road or stormwater infrastructure without proper authorisation.
Linda Gildenhuys, chairperson of the association, clarified that the project was community-led. “It followed multiple reports to JRA over a long period. Some potholes had become extremely dangerous, causing burst tyres and near accidents. We couldn’t wait any longer. We had to act for ourselves,” she said.
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“We are extremely proud of our community and their support. However, it’s bittersweet because residents are already paying the City of Johannesburg for services, and with the economy the way it is, paying double for basic upkeep is tough on many, especially those already struggling financially.”
Gildenhuys praised the dedicated community members who contributed their time and resources, particularly Sabelo Mahlangu and Paul Mtika.
“They worked hard with a smile. Roads were in a bad state, some almost impassable. We reached out to residents for help with donations, and together we managed to repair over 155 potholes. This was achieved without big budgets, just the collective effort of our residents.”
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Gqibitole said anyone intending to undertake such work by the Sunninghill community must apply for and obtain a wayleave from the JRA. He said this process ensured that all activities were carried out safely, in compliance with regulations, and without compromising existing infrastructure.
“The issue of multiple unaddressed reports is not limited to Sunninghill alone. As we have previously stated, the road infrastructure is aged and in need of comprehensive rehabilitation. This is a widespread problem affecting the entire region, with many roads showing signs of advanced deterioration due to their age.
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“We are currently addressing a huge backlog, following a high volume of rain we received between October and April this year. The road infrastructure has suffered extensive damage during this period. Despite these challenges, we remain fully committed to ensuring that repairs are carried out across the region. While this will not be an overnight fix, it is an ongoing process.”
He added that the roads agency had initiated a public-private partnership initiative, which was expected to provide much-needed support in addressing these infrastructure challenges.
“The JRA has reporting lines like “hotline@jra.org.za,” Gqibitole concluded.
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