Craigavon residents fume as valve leak destroys roads
Poplar and Campbell roads are falling apart as a water leak left unrepaired for half a year sparks frustration and danger as JW fails to take action.
Fourways Review and Ward 115 councillor Mark van der Merwe visited the valve leak at the circle of Poplar and Campbell roads in Craigavon, on September 5.
According to residents, and Van der Merwe, the valve has been left unattended by Johannesburg Water (JW) for over six months, causing severe road damage, including large potholes and rapid deterioration of the surface.
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This has led to frustration among residents as they feel helpless after months of reporting with no answers from JW.
Van der Merwe said Johannesburg Road Agency (JRA) teams have repaired the damage at least three times, but now refuse to return until JW resolves the underlying problem.
He explained that along with the urban inspector, CRUM director, and the regional director for Region E, they have been repeatedly escalating the matter, but no permanent action has been taken.
He described the ongoing damage in detail. “The leak runs down into the road, collects in a circle, and spreads into the tar. That’s what causes the potholes to form so quickly. Until JW stops the leak, the repairs are pointless.”
Also read: Major Fourways leak fixed after councillor pressures city
For residents, the conditions have become unbearable. “Drivers are forced onto the wrong side of the road to avoid the holes, creating a dangerous environment for motorists and pedestrians alike,” said Vanessa Quinton. “Congestion during peak hours is extreme, with residents facing daily frustration and risk. The potholes are worsening quickly, making them harder to avoid and significantly raising the risk of accidents.”
@caxtonjoburgnorth The Fourways Review was on site with Ward 115 councillor Mark van der Merwe at the Poplar and Campbell Roads intersection in Craigavon, highlighting a valve leak left unattended for six months that has caused severe road damage and mounting frustration among residents. #Ward115 #Craigavon #Fourways #newstiktok #FYP
♬ original sound – Caxton Joburg North – Caxton Joburg North
Van der Merwe stressed that without intervention from JW, the road cannot be properly repaired. “This is getting worse and worse, and JRA will not repair it until the leak is sorted. We urgently need JW to act.”
Fourways Review reached out to JW on September 4. Their comment will be provided once it becomes available.
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