Pretoria: Mamelodi’s million rand car wash remains dysfunctional
It was supposed to have been used by government officials, taxis and motorists.
About R6-million went down the drain when a Mamelodi West car wash project by the Tshwane municipality failed to get off the ground in 2015, it was revealed recently, Rekord East reports.
Ironically, the project was aimed at boosting the economy by employing 50 youngsters.
“The Reitiretse car wash was supposed to revitalise the township as part of the Gauteng province’s tourism revitalisation programme,” said Tshwane metro spokesperson Lindela Mashigo.
The car wash is located near Tsamaya Road, one of the busiest roads in Mamelodi.
“However, it was only operational until it was damaged by storms and heavy rains.”
Mashigo said Reitirestse was a co-operative comprised of township car washers.
Today, the car wash stands empty and is dilapidated, after being targeted by vandals and thieves.
This as the roof, toilets, bins, windows and doors were all stolen.
The metro was, however, in discussions with the Gauteng department of economic development, environment and agriculture to resuscitate township projects such as the car wash.
“The overall strategy is to convert these projects into so-called ‘incubation centres’ where small and emerging businesses will be incubated,” he said.
At its launch, the car wash was intended to be a state-of-the-art facility.
It would also have boasted a braai and kiosk facility, a laundromat, hair salon, cleaning services and security services as well as facilities management.
Residents told the media they were disappointed that the facility was never truly operational.
The car wash was supposed to have been used by government officials, the taxi industry and motorists at an affordable price.
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