Councillors highlight non-functional traffic lights in Norkem Park
“The non-functional traffic lights, combined with the often slow response from the EMPD, have made rush-hour traffic more treacherous."
Members of the DA and the Gauteng Provincial Legislature, led by Mike Waters, recently conducted an oversight visit to the R25/P91 and Mooirivier Drive intersection in Norkem Park.
Ward 91 Clr Desmond McKenzie, stated that he has continuously reported the non-functional traffic lights at the R25/P91 intersection to both the provincial government and the City of Ekurhuleni (CoE), alongside concerned residents.
McKenzie emphasised that this ongoing issue highlights a persistent effort by the community to bring the matter to the authorities’ attention and advocate for a resolution.
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He described the R25/P91 as a dangerous stretch of road, particularly at its intersection with Mooirivier Drive, which has become notorious for serious accidents.
“The non-functional traffic lights, combined with the often slow response from the EMPD, have made rush-hour traffic more treacherous.
“This has led to a disturbing rise in both accidents and fatalities, raising serious concerns among residents and motorists,” said McKenzie.
While he could not confirm the exact number of accidents caused by the faulty traffic signals, McKenzie affirmed that the issue is long-standing and has been repeatedly reported to both the City of Ekurhuleni and the Gauteng Provincial Government.
“The City of Ekurhuleni continues to deflect responsibility, stating that the road falls under provincial jurisdiction. This back-and-forth creates a significant challenge in getting the issue addressed,” he added.
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Residents have voiced several ongoing concerns related to the broken traffic lights, including:
• Increased accident risk: A malfunction at a busy intersection endangers both motorists and pedestrians.
• Pedestrian danger: The lack of working signals makes it risky for people trying to cross the road.
• Daily delays: Commuters report losing valuable time during peak hours, often arriving late to school or work.
• Inconvenience and stress: Navigating the intersection without functional signals adds significant stress and inconvenience to daily routines.
“Non-functional traffic lights cause congestion and gridlock, increasing travel time and daily commute stress. It’s not just an inconvenience, it’s a safety hazard,” said McKenzie.
He explained that the City of Ekurhuleni acknowledges the issue and routinely notifies the Gauteng Provincial Department about such faults on provincial roads.
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However, the city has also noted that the province follows its own timelines for resolving these problems.
“I urge the relevant authorities to prioritise the repair and ongoing maintenance of the traffic lights at the R25/P91 intersection. Residents deserve a safer and more efficient commute,” McKenzie concluded.
The Kempton Express submitted an enquiry to the Office of the Premier on March 20, requesting comment by March 24.
No response had been received at the time of going to print.
