Persistent potholes and crumbling road surfaces are once again putting Midrand’s Ward 132 in the spotlight, as residents grow increasingly frustrated over what they describe as years of neglect in essential infrastructure repairs.

With roads deteriorating at an alarming pace, community members say they are tired of empty promises… And their ward councillor agrees.

Read more: Stuck in pothole? Claim damages

Ward councillor Annette Deppe said the situation has escalated to a level that can no longer be ignored, stressing that residents are deeply concerned. “The lack of progress in repairing potholes, resurfacing, and reinstatements is directly attributable to the failure to allocate necessary funds to our ward. This situation has reached a critical point, as the current administration continues to fall short in addressing these fundamental needs.”

Also read: Pothole claims are mounting in South Africa

Deppe alleges that Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) has overspent this quarter by an alarming R100m, and has already dipped into the next quarter’s budget by the same amount, a move she says reflects a troubling trend. “This pattern of fiscal mismanagement is untenable. We urge the relevant authorities to prioritise transparency and accountability in managing our community’s resources.”

She emphasised that decisive action is urgently required to address the backlog of road repairs, and to ensure that Ward 132 receives the funding it desperately needs. “Our community is entitled to safe and well-maintained roads, and we will continue to advocate for the necessary changes to achieve this goal.”

Midrand Reporter inquired to JRA about when some of the reported potholes in the ward will be attended to. Their response will be published as soon as it is received.

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