Businesses along Louis Trichardt and Petroleum Streets in Mbombela say deteriorating roads and severe dust are disrupting operations and risking worker health.

Business owners claim they have repeatedly appealed to the City of Mbombela (CoM) to rehabilitate the roads, but instead of permanent repairs, the municipality has allegedly simply continued filling potholes with soil.

They say this has worsened the problem, as passing vehicles stir up large clouds of dust that settle on their premises.

“No matter how often we clean our businesses, the dust is back within minutes. It is affecting our customers, our staff and our products. It has become a serious health hazard,” one business owner said.

Infrastructure failures compound problem

The businesses also claim that stormwater drainage systems in the area are blocked, resulting in poor drainage and the further deterioration of the road surface.

One of the complainants in the area, Peter Esquino, said the condition of the roads has become unacceptable, especially considering that the area is an important economic hub.

“Louis Trichardt Street needs to be completely rebuilt. Simply filling potholes is not a solution. This area is home to many businesses and serves as one of the exit routes for Buscor buses from the nearby bus terminal. It deserves proper infrastructure,” said Esquino.

Staff wear masks to cope with dust

“Some of my employees are forced to work while wearing masks because of the dust. The road itself is very bad – to the point where drivers do not want to come and deliver or collect our staff, which is not good for business,” said Christie Jonger.

“We pay for rates and services and expect better service since we are in a business area that forms part of the municipality’s economic zone.”

Commuters using the road daily said it needs serious attention, as they inhale dust, adding that travelling by bus is uncomfortable along the route that serves as the main terminal exit.

Esquino added that improving the roads would not only benefit businesses, but also motorists and public transport operators who use the route daily.

CoM spokesperson Joseph Ngala was unavailable for comment at the time of going to press.