Streetlights on R536 in Hazyview remain out for the count
The streetlights were installed by City of Mbombela throughout Hazyview area.
The R536 is yet another reminder of the many unfulfilled promises and of the City of Mbombela’s (CoM) negligence.
The CoM is once again showing no regard for the taxpayers who are keeping them in office as the saga of the streetlights on the R536 in Hazyview, heading towards the Kruger National Park, continues.
They were installed as part of the CoM’s promises of an ongoing safety and development project; to have the streetlights throughout Hazyview repaired or replaced.
However, these have become additional symbols of abandonment, as some of the light poles slant dangerously after being hit by vehicles.
Despite community members reporting these incidents, the CoM has failed to attend to it.
Adding to the issue is the rampant theft of light fixtures, allegedly by individuals involved in substance abuse. The once bright area is now dark as critical components were stolen. This further endangers road users and tarnishes the image of the community. This reflects a broader issue of the municipality’s inability to maintain public infrastructure,” residents of this once beautiful town said.
A tour guide, Sydney Mkhabela, said: “It’s disappointing that something that was meant to benefit us has been left to deteriorate. Instead of progress, we’re dealing with hazards that could have been avoided. The neglect of these streetlights raises questions about the municipality’s commitment to its community. Why are they not repairing and securing the infrastructure? What measures are being taken to prevent future thefts and ensure public safety?” he asked.
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The chairperson of the Hazyview Chamber of Business and Tourism, Goodman Nkosi, said: “The CoM must prioritise resolving this issue by repairing and stabilising damaged poles, installing anti-theft measures to protect streetlight components and ensure community involvement to deter vandalism and theft. They should communication with the public. This road leads to the Kruger and we host local and international tourists. The dysfunctional streetlights paint a bad image of the area and businesses.”
The CoM’s spokesperson, Joseph Ngala, is keeping mum on the issue and was not available for comment by the time of publication.
