White River and Mbombela residents demand action over deepening potholes and burning streetlights
Choking dust and failing temporary repairs leave local businesses struggling as deteriorating infrastructure takes a toll across the area.
Deepening road craters and day-burning streetlights across White River and Mbombela are driving up safety hazards and municipal power waste for local road users.
Residents claim that the problems have been reported to the City of Mbombela (CoM), but little action has been taken to address them.
Potholes worsen across key suburban roads
ALSO READ: Mbombela residents demand urgent action as potholes worsen
Potholes along Petroleum Street are reportedly worsening, with dust generated by passing vehicles affecting businesses operating in the area.
The potholes on Percy Fitzpatrick Street, between Bushshrike and Van Rooyen Streets, have also deteriorated. Residents say some potholes are occasionally filled with soil, but the temporary repairs last only a few days before the potholes return.
Photo: Supplied/Lynette Botha
Another long-standing problem is on Van Wijk Street, where potholes have continued to deepen without being permanently repaired.
Vuurvliegie Street is also affected, with a large pothole reportedly becoming worse after recent rains.
Van Rooyen Street remains another major concern, with residents describing the potholes as a challenge for motorists using the road.
ALSO READ: Gatvol Mbombelans demand permanent fix of Johanna Drive
Daytime burning lights waste electricity
Residents have also raised concerns about streetlights that remain switched on during the day.
They said malfunctioning streetlights have been an ongoing problem in the area and questioned why some lights continue burning 24 hours a day in White River.
Residents believe addressing the faulty lights would not only reduce unnecessary electricity consumption but potentially help prevent further damage to infrastructure.
The concerns come as residents continue calling for improved maintenance of roads and municipal infrastructure across White River.
Municipality responds to complaints
CoM spokesperson Joseph Ngala said the municipality is aware of the pothole concerns and that repairs are ongoing.
“Most of the worst areas in Mbombela have been attended to,” said Ngala.
Regarding streetlights that remain on during the day, Ngala said the municipality will attend to reported faults.
