The condition of the city’s major roads has reached crisis levels as potholes continue to expand and deepen. Temporary patching is no longer enough and residents are calling on the City of Mbombela (CoM) to implement permanent solutions.

Johanna, Dr Enos Mabuza and Percy Fitzpatrick drives, as well as Bosch Street, are among the rapidly deteriorating roads prompting calls for urgent and extensive intervention. They were problematic before the current rainy season, but ongoing rainfall has turned manageable potholes into dangerous gaps, posing serious risks to motorists.

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Experts warn that the damage to some vital sections has progressed beyond what standard pothole repairs can fix. The underlying road structure is compromised, with entire stretches in need of proper resealing or long-term rehabilitation to ensure road users’ safety.

The widening and deepening potholes force drivers to swerve, sometimes into oncoming traffic – a hazard that is especially dangerous during peak hours and at night.

In response to public concern, CoM spokesperson Joseph Ngala said the municipality is addressing the issue. He confirmed that all reported damage is being followed up, and that a strategic plan is in place to tackle the backlog, including key resealing projects.

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“I encourage residents to report issues through the city’s official channels, as a responsive system is in place for maintenance planning. We have a Jetpatcher, service providers and internal staff to address potholes within the municipality,” he said. “We have partnered with We Care 4 Nelspruit to repair potholes on Dr Enos Mabuza Drive. Johanna Drive and Bosch Street are also part of the programme and we will reseal the roads soon.”

Ngala added that the ongoing rains are complicating repairs, noting that even some previously fixed potholes have opened up again. “We will repair them once the rain stops.”