Modjadjiskloof roads deteriorating, residents call for action

TZANEEN – Residents in Modjadjiskloof are voicing growing concern over severe road deterioration at the corner of Memphitso and Mabel streets, calling for urgent municipal intervention to address what they describe as a worsening safety hazard.

The affected area has reportedly been in decline for several months, with residents attributing the damage to a combination of persistent water leaks, poor drainage, and lack of maintenance.

Residents report worsening road conditions

Despite repeated attempts to alert local authorities, little progress has been made toward resolving the issue.

According to community members, officials from the Greater Letaba Municipality (GLM) have been formally notified on at least seven occasions.

While a site visit was conducted, residents say the response has been largely inadequate, consisting mainly of verbal assurances and unfulfilled promises.

The primary cause of the road damage is believed to be an ongoing leak from a main water pipe running through a nearby private property along the fence line.

Leaking pipes and blocked drains worsen the problem

The continuous flow of water has gradually eroded the road surface, creating potholes and weakening the structural integrity of the roadway.

Residents warn that if left unattended, the damage could escalate, leading to more costly repairs and increased risk for motorists and pedestrians alike.

Compounding the problem is the accumulation of vegetation debris in the area.

Overgrown plants and uncollected organic matter have not only obstructed visibility but have also concealed the extent of the road damage, making it more dangerous for unsuspecting road users.

In addition, a stormwater drain located above the affected section has been identified as another contributing factor.

Residents report that the drain is not properly open at the bottom, preventing efficient water flow.

Since December 2025, heavy rains have frequently caused the drain to overflow, further saturating the ground and accelerating the deterioration of the road surface.

Residents call on municipality for urgent action

Community members say the situation has reached a critical point, with increasing concern over vehicle damage, potential accidents, and restricted access for emergency services.

They are urging the municipality to take immediate and decisive action to repair the leaking pipe, clear the vegetation, and ensure that the stormwater drainage system is functioning effectively.

“This is no longer just an inconvenience; it’s a safety issue,” one resident said.

“We’ve done our part by reporting it multiple times. Now we need the municipality to act before someone gets hurt.”

Residents remain hopeful that their renewed call for intervention will prompt a swift and lasting solution, restoring safety and accessibility to one of the area’s key roadways.

Herald contacted GLM spokesperson Lovers Maenetja about plans to fix the mentioned streets.

She said that she will check with her team on the plans.