The Gatvol Campaign, initiated by Lowvelder, continues to gain traction as residents express their frustrations over ongoing service delivery issues.

Despite efforts to restore the city to its former glory, there is still much to be done.

Residents recently took to social media to voice their frustration about potholes, dysfunctional streetlights and, despite load-shedding being suspended, load reduction rearing its ugly head.

ALSO READ: The Lowveld’s shine is fading, say gatvol residents

The week started off with massive school traffic congestions due to the traffic light near De Hallen in Ferreira Street not working, and no pointsmen were in sight.

However, the City of Mbombela (CoM) has addressed the issue and vowed to take a look at potholes, streetlights and other concerns. The CoM’s spokesperson, Joseph Ngala, said the city is currently taking stock of the non-working streetlights.

ALSO READ: Damaged Hazyview traffic circle poses a danger to motorists

“Some have already been fixed. I must also indicate that with some of these streetlights, we need to replace the old fittings, since they are no longer available on the market.”

With regards to the potholes, Mayor Sibongile Makushe-Mazibuko said the municipal teams should be back in their boots when the rain subsides, and thanked the residents for their patience. “We have started training our teams on the new machines. Ultimately, patching will commence,” she said.

Readers express their views:

Tony Williems: Well done Lowvelder, we need action and heads must roll! #Gatvol”

Michelle Buys: “This is amazing that we can stand together and be heard.”

Elaine Blignaut: “Omtrent gatvol! Onaanvaarbaar dat ons sulke paaie moet gebruik.”

Brenda Campbell Haasbroek: “Vir seker gatvol… Ons het van Piet Retief af verhuis en was so trots om te kon sê, wow, hier lyk die paaie super goed… Mmm, en nou? Nou begin dit ook soos Piet Primitief s’n te lyk. Wat gaan aan?”

Rene Wolmarans: “Gatvol, gatvol, maar hulle sal jou aftrek om jou tyres te check langs ’n pothole.”

Carlene van der Westhuizen: “Load reduction! Up until the announcement of load-shedding this weekend, we have had load reduction every second day. Twice a day. Since ‘load-shedding’ we have had an upside down ‘schedule.’ We never know what’s going on. As I write this now, our power is off. Load reduction is just another word for load-shedding. Some of us have businesses to run, some of us have babies and some are elderly! This is absolutely ridiculous.”

Annriette Slabber: “I stand with you. West Acres deteriorating right in front of our eyes, is really painful to experience. As for the crime happening, that is another pandemic. If it wasn’t for private security, I don’t know if we would still be alive.”

The campaign continues to gain momentum, and the City of Mbombela has committed to addressing these issues.

 

Gatvol? Stand up and be heard

To participate, simply head over to the comments section of Lowvelder’s Facebook page and share your grievances, email them to editorial@lowvelder.co.za, or WhatsApp 082 368 1446, with an accompanying photograph and location.

Whether it’s the hazardous potholes that plague our roads, dirty water or any other issue making you gatvol, we want to hear from you. Your feedback is invaluable in highlighting the areas that need immediate attention and improvement.

By voicing your frustrations, you are not only raising awareness, but also contributing to potential solutions.

Don’t let your frustrations go unheard. Join the Gatvol Campaign today and be the change you want to see.