Residents in Glen Austin are once again raising concerns about reckless driving and ongoing traffic signal failures affecting major intersections in the area.

In early March of this year, Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) spokesperson Superintendent Xolani Fihla confirmed that the department was aware of the issues along George Road, Allan Road, and Olifantsfontein Road.

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

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However, residents argue that the problem has persisted far longer than acknowledged. Resident Mike Wiggill claims that the traffic lights at the troubled George and Allan roads intersection have not functioned properly for nearly two years.

“I would say they have worked for less than one day in the last two years. They were fixed briefly, but 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 the morning and evening rush hours. According to Wiggill, some motorists, especially taxi drivers, are driving 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.”

Wiggill also mentioned similar behaviour at the intersection of R101 and George Road, where vehicles are allegedly entering opposing traffic lanes to make right turns.

Residents are 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 on the routes, often stopping taxis and other non-compliant motorists, they argue that these operations are inconsistent and insufficient.

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

Since October 29, the Midrand Reporter has sent inquiries to JRA to confirm whether the agency is aware of the damaged and non-functional traffic lights, and if repairs are scheduled.

The JMPD has also been asked to clarify whether fines have been issued or vehicles impounded on the affected routes during recent operations. No responses has been received from either agency, despite several follow-ups.

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