Residents in Glen Austin are once again raising the alarm over ongoing reckless driving and long-unresolved traffic signal failures affecting major intersections in the area.

In early March this year, JMPD spokesperson Superintendent Xolani Fihla confirmed that the department was aware of the concerns along George, Allan, and Olifantsfontein roads.

Read more: Repairs to Belvedere Road brings cautious relief to Glen Austin residents

He said JMPD would increase patrol visibility to address dangerous driving behaviour, particularly at peak hours. Fihla further noted that the malfunctioning traffic lights at the intersection of George and Allan roads would be escalated to the Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) for maintenance and repair.

However, residents said the issue has persisted far longer than officially acknowledged. Resident Mike Wiggill said the traffic lights at the troubled George and Allan intersection have not functioned properly for nearly two years.

“I would say they have worked for less than one day in at least the last two years,” he said. “They were fixed briefly, and then the traffic light pole was knocked down that same night, early last year.”

Residents report that the ongoing malfunction has led to increasing reckless driving, particularly during morning and evening rush hours. According to Wiggill, some motorists, especially taxis, drive into oncoming lanes to bypass congestion.

“The taxi drivers drive up the wrong side of George Road during rush hour to force their way in at the intersection,” he said.

Wiggill added that similar behaviour is being seen at the intersection of R101 and George Road, with vehicles allegedly entering opposing traffic lanes to make right turns.

Residents are also questioning why functioning traffic lights at the intersection of Olifantsfontein (R562) and Allan Road were replaced with temporary stop signs, which they believe have increased congestion and confusion.

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While they acknowledge that JMPD officers are occasionally visible along the routes, often stopping taxis and other non-compliant motorists, they argue that these operations are inconsistent and insufficient.

“If JMPD don’t make regular appearances on the George Road hill up to Allan Road, nothing will change,” said Wiggill. “If they only hand out fines which many won’t pay or accept bribes, the reckless driving will continue. The only real solution is to come down hard and impound vehicles.”

Midrand Reporter has sent inquiries to the JRA to confirm whether the agency is aware of the damaged and non-functional traffic lights, and if repairs are scheduled.

JMPD has also been asked to clarify whether fines have been issued or vehicles impounded on the affected routes during recent operations. Responses will be published once received.

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