Despite repeated attempts to get answers, there has been radio silence from Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) regarding the worsening condition of Dennis Road in Ward 93.

So much so, that Vino Reddy, the councillor of the area, say it is no longer fit for purpose.

The road, described as narrow and uneven, continues to deteriorate, with cracks now accompanied by growing potholes.

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Reddy says the lack of proper storm water drainage has made matters worse, particularly during heavy rains, when water had been known to flow off the road and into nearby properties, flooding several homes.

He recently visited the area again with Fourways Review to assess the damage and document conditions in an effort to paint a clearer picture for the city.

However, with no formal response from JRA on media enquiries, frustration is mounting. “Dennis Road is not wide enough. It is bumpy, and the drainage is simply not working. During rains, water runs off into homes. This is not sustainable.”

Reddy explained that, while a storm water system was installed about two years ago, critical inlets were never added, rendering the system ineffective.

As a result, groundwater and runoff continue to accumulate, worsening both the road surface and the risk to nearby properties. He said one home, located on a bend along the road, remains particularly vulnerable, with occupants fearing repeated flooding every time it rains. “I have been advocating for the road to be redone since I became the ward councillor in 2021.”

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According to Reddy, the city has consistently cited budget constraints as a reason for delays, while also indicating that the road requires a full rebuild, rather than simple resurfacing. “The reality is this road cannot just be patched. It needs to be rebuilt, widened, regraded, and properly drained, but residents cannot keep living like this while waiting for that to happen.”

Questions were sent to the City of Johannesburg and JRA regarding budget and any planned upgrades for Dennis Road. These were submitted on March 13, with a response requested by March 16.

Bertha Scheepers, from the road’s agency, said: “Thank you for your enquiry. Your deadline does not give us much time, but we will try our best.” Unfortunately, at the time of publication, no further response had been received, despite a reminder on March 16.

In a response to a follow up sent on March 18, Lucia Mhlanga, from the roads’ agency, said: “We are still working on it and we will get back to you as soon as we acquire the responses.” We followed up again on March 25, but there was still no response.

We will continue to attempt to get a response from them and will publish as soon as we do.

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