A R17m infrastructure project, intended to protect homes in Fairland Estate from flooding, has instead become a source of growing frustration and concern for residents, after repeated delays and prolonged inactivity on site.

The Johannesburg Roads Agency’s (JRA) gabions project – designed to stabilise riverbanks ahead of the peak rainy season – has fallen significantly behind schedule, with construction halting multiple times since its launch in July 2025. Originally set for completion in November 2025, after a five-month timeline, the project came to a standstill as early as September, raising alarm among residents who feared increased risk to their properties during heavy rains. Work interruptions again in December further compounded delays, leaving the project incomplete months later.

Read more: Ward 98 councillor slams Fairland gabions project crisis

JRA head of department Kwazelela Mcetywa confirmed that the revised completion date is now set for May 15. He attributed the missed deadlines primarily to adverse weather conditions, but acknowledged additional setbacks that have slowed progress on site. “These include periods of heavy rain, minor scope adjustments that required approval before implementation, and delays in payments to the contractor.”

The project, undertaken by JMS Projects, has also faced operational challenges, with residents reporting extended periods where no contractors were present on site – including a three-week gap over the Easter period.
Concerns have also been raised about financial issues affecting progress. Mcetywa confirmed that while payments have been made, some amounts remained outstanding, with the final payment expected to be settled this week.

Communication breakdowns have further strained relations between authorities and the community. Ward 98 councillor Beverley Jacobs, along with residents, expressed frustration over a lack of updates and engagement. It later emerged that the community liaison officer (CLO), responsible for keeping residents informed, had resigned – a development JRA said it was unaware of at the time.

Also read: Fairland gabions project shows signs of strong recovery

Despite these challenges, Mcetywa said efforts are now underway to regain lost time. The contractor returned to site on April 13, and an acceleration plan has been implemented, which includes overtime and extended working hours. “The contractor will work additional hours to ensure the project is completed within the revised timeframe.”

For residents, however, confidence remains fragile as the project drags on well beyond its intended completion date, leaving many uneasy about the risks posed by the unfinished work.

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