Ward 132 councillor Annete Deppe has raised concerns over two major events set to take place on the same route on September 21.

“It has come to my attention that two major events are scheduled to occur simultaneously on Sunday, the 21st [September], in Ward 132. Upon inquiring with the Joint Operations Centre (JOC), it was revealed that they were unaware of the events clashing on the same route.

Read more: Lonehill gears up for 22nd annual fun run

“They have assured me they will inform the organisers and consult with the provincial JMPD JOC, promising to provide feedback,” said Deppe.

“Residents should be informed that on Sunday, the 21st, the Delicious Festival will generate traffic on Allandale and the R55 as attendees make their way to the racetrack. Concurrently, the Waterfall Marathon, involving 7 000 participants, will take place on the same route.”

The councillor expressed disappointment at the lack of foresight from city officials.

“The city did not alert me to this scheduling conflict; it became apparent when I realised both events were planned for the same day. It appears that these events were not properly coordinated or planned by the City of Johannesburg.”

Depped added. “My concern is that proceeding with both events will lead to conflicts among cars, pedestrians, walkers, and runners on these roads, necessitating significant deployment of JMPD personnel from across Johannesburg to manage the situation in this ward on that day.”

Also read: Hawkers moved off R55 as Ward 94 intensifies no hawking on provincial roads

The JMDP’s Xolani Fihla said he is awaiting further information from their events management team regarding the two events.

“Hopefully, I’ll have it soon so I can respond promptly.”

The city’s Nthatisi Modingoane was contacted for comment with a note that the story is urgent, but no response was received. The article will be updated as soon as a comment is received.

Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates