Lonehill Engen garage takes action to stop fuel spills damaging road
Residents of Lonehill can expect a safer, cleaner road as the local Engen garage invests in a new system to stop fuel spills from reaching the street.
Residents and motorists in Lonehill can expect a safer and cleaner stretch of road near the Engen garage, thanks to a joint effort between the garage owners and the local councillor.
Ward councillor David Foley recently engaged with the garage team, after noticing that excess fuel from the petrol station was spilling onto the road, causing damage to the tar surface.
“It was eating and breaking down the tar,” Foley explained. “I spoke to the owners, and they were very co-operative. We discussed a plan on site, and now they’re actively working on it.”
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One of the garage owners, Mahesh Valabh, and site manager Trust Dube, shared more about the initiative. “When Foley pointed out the issue, we were happy to co-operate,” Valabh said. “As part of the community, it’s our responsibility to do the right thing and make sure our customers, and the public, are safe.”
The project involves creating a channel to collect excess fuel and wash water from the forecourt.
The liquids will flow into a separator pit, which removes chemicals before the water is safely disposed of. This system is designed to prevent any future spills onto the road.
Dube noted that the project has required a significant financial investment.
“The project actually cost us quite a lot of funds, but we’re committed to seeing it through, step by step, to ensure the road and forecourt are safe.”
The work is expected to take around one and a half months, but no longer than two.
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“It’s impacting our business right now because some pumps have been barricaded, but we’re confident that once the project is completed, the site and the road will be much safer and fully functional.”
Foley also confirmed that Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) will repair the damaged tar once the fuel issue is addressed, ensuring the road is smooth and safe for residents and commuters.
“This is a great example of community co-operation,” said Foley. “When local businesses take responsibility, and authorities work together, we can solve problems efficiently and make Lonehill a better place for everyone.”
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