Ward 15 Clr Amanda Davison has called on the City of Ekurhuleni to act decisively after yet another failure at the long-problematic Beukes/Stephanus stormwater site in Glen Marais, known locally as the Beukes-gat.

For years, this location has experienced recurring collapses due to structural flaws in the stormwater system.

Despite multiple repairs and city assurances, the system continues to fail, creating dangerous cavities that threaten motorists, pedestrians, and municipal workers.

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Residents recently reported fresh instability and incomplete works, with contractors on site for over three months.

Concerns were also raised about unsafe working conditions, including a reported worker fatality connected to the site.

“I have escalated the matter to the MMC for Roads and Stormwater and other relevant departments, and will continue pressing until residents receive both accountability and a permanent solution,” said Davison.

She is demanding immediate action, including:
• A joint site inspection by Roads and Stormwater, along with Health and Safety, units within 48 hours, with a public update.
• Full disclosure of all contractors involved, including contracts and safety compliance.
• A technical assessment and reconstruction plan, with funding and timelines published.
• A formal investigation into the reported worker fatality, including compensation if confirmed.
• Temporary traffic and pedestrian safety measures, along with weekly public progress reports.

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City spokesperson Zweli Dlamini confirmed remedial measures have been implemented to stabilise the site.

These include the reconstruction of the junction box at Beukes and Stephanus streets using reinforced concrete with improved benching to ensure proper water flow.

Dlamini clarified that all contractors comply with health and safety regulations, with regular audits conducted by safety officers.

Regarding the reported fatality, he confirmed that a worker was struck by a truck during traffic control operations, sustained serious injuries, and later died.

The incident was reported to the Department of Labour, and statutory compensation processes under COIDA are being followed.

“The temporary junction box and manholes were insufficient for heavy rainfall, and budget constraints required temporary structures to protect road users and properties,” Dlamini said.

“The permanent solution involves reinforced concrete structures, hydraulic upgrades, and flow re-alignment to handle peak stormwater and improve structural integrity.”

Phase 1 of reconstruction is in progress and scheduled for completion by December 2025, funded under the 2025/2026 capital budget.

“Regular site meetings with officials, contractors, consultants, and community representatives ensure transparency and accountability, supplemented by a dedicated WhatsApp group for real-time updates.”

The affected section of Beukes Road remains closed to traffic, with detour signage in place and public access restricted.

Weekly progress reports will be shared via the councillor’s office, the WhatsApp group, and the city’s official communication channels.

“A joint technical inspection involving the Roads and Transport Management Department, Water and Sanitation, project consultants, and the ward councillor is planned in the coming weeks, with a formal public update to follow,” Dlamini confirmed.