All hands on deck: Rhodesfield residents fix potholes and clean up streets

Tired of waiting for municipal action, Rhodesfield and Rhodesfield Ext 1 community members cleaned their neighbourhood and repaired potholes.

Led by Ashika Singh Pillay and supported by Rhodesfield Rising, residents gathered on April 12 to clean and patch potholes on Vallei and Vine streets and Van Der Sterr Road.

The initiative, made possible through a partnership with Vumba Security Services and volunteers, was borne out of frustration following repeated, unanswered reports to the municipality about the worsening road conditions.

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Ward Clr Simon Lapping was disappointed with the lack of municipal support, “It’s disheartening that residents have to step in and do work that falls under the municipality’s responsibility. The city has failed to provide even the most basic services. We reported these issues repeatedly with no response.”

Despite limited resources, residents pooled their funds to buy the materials and the tools for the repairs.

The idea was shared in a community group, where members quickly rallied, donated and committed to making it happen.

Though funds were tight, they patched the most problematic potholes, two large and seven medium-sized ones, that had damaged vehicles and forced drivers onto pavements, endangering pedestrians.

Maria Grobler, a Rhodesfield resident for over 30 years, noted the area’s steady decline, “It is sad to see how things have deteriorated.

“We had to deal with issues like broken streetlights for years. Thankfully, people like Ashika came; she’s truly a godsend.”

Resident Michael Tloubatla echoed this sentiment, saying the lack of municipal response left them with no choice.

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“We reported this for so long with no results. I am proud that our community stepped up. It takes strength and unity to do things for ourselves.”

The effort brought together people of all ages, all determined to restore pride in their neighbourhood and create safer streets.
Many who could not contribute brought food, snacks, cold drinks, and water to support the volunteers.

Singh Pillay, the leader and founder of Rhodesfield Rising, said the project responded to community concerns and the visible decline of their surroundings.

“For years, residents have complained about the state of our area. It is getting worse – the poor service delivery, rising crime and a sense that we have been forgotten.”

She thanked the community and her close supporters, including her husband, Dinesh Pillay, Dean Brummer, and Vumba Security owner Craig Masombo.

“Their commitment has been incredible. Whether helping with manual labour, offering tools or supporting us with food and encouragement, every contribution mattered. I am thankful to every person who played a role.”

The community hopes their efforts will inspire further action and remind the municipality of its responsibilities.