WESTVILLE North residents are raising concerns about their safety as Beaconsfield Road which was damaged during the 2021 floods continues to deteriorate. A section of the road has sunk and it continues to cave in, making it increasingly unstable and posing significant dangers to both motorists and pedestrians.

Home-owners near the affected area have described the situation as a severe safety hazard and are urging the municipality to intervene.

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“At this rate, the road will eventually be no more, and we won’t be able to go to work, which means no income. We are expected to pay rates and keep up to date, yet this repair has been overdue since 2021. Is that fair?” the residents questioned.

Ward councillor Smoh Xulu expressed her frustration with the eThekwini Municipality Roads and Stormwater Department, criticising their inaction.

“Despite numerous complaints from myself and residents, the department has neglected its duties, leaving our roads unsafe for motorists and pedestrians. This neglect has serious consequences,” said Xulu.

“This road has been left unattended since the 2021 floods, and we are not getting a clear indication of what the plan is to repair it. Instead, we’re told they are ‘working on a plan’. After four years of reporting this, they are still working on a plan. This is unacceptable.

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“Residents use this road daily as it is their only access to their homes. It continues to deteriorate under the weight of passing cars and the current weather conditions. I have repeatedly communicated this to the department, yet we still haven’t received any valid response,” she added.

The eThekwini Municipality was not available for comment by the time of publication.

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