Endumeni’s long-suffering motorists may finally see relief following the launch of Operation Vali Pothole, a new public-private partnership aimed at improving road conditions across the area.

Often dubbed the “pothole route”, several roads have deteriorated sharply in recent years. Mayor Mcebo Mkhize said the initiative signalled a renewed commitment to road safety and infrastructure maintenance.

During a briefing at the municipality last week, officials said the intervention would focus on damage caused by heavy rainfall and increased traffic volumes, which have accelerated road deterioration on key routes.

Partnership targets lasting repairs

Alan Schonken of Sinethemba Construction said the partnership would focus on practical, long-term solutions rather than short-term fixes.

“Sinethemba Construction has entered into a partnership with the municipality to assist with road repairs and to train municipal workers,” Schonken said.

He confirmed that his company had already begun assessing problem areas and addressing existing potholes.

“The mix the municipality has been using is not correct, which is why repairs break up within weeks,” he said. “No adhesive solution was used, and the tar ended up sticking to tyres.”

Schonken said workers were being trained to properly cut, prepare and compact repairs, adding that the correct mix would now be supplied to ensure durability.

“We are working on a cost-only basis. This is a community project and there is no profit for our company,” he said.

Mayor Mkhize acknowledged past challenges, saying some contractors had delivered poor-quality work after being paid upfront.

“Once our team is properly trained, the work can be done in-house,” he said.

Road repairs have already begun in Glencoe and the Dundee CBD, with further areas expected to follow.