Several low-lying bridges were submerged, sinkholes developed and sections of the road were damaged during Monday’s massive storm. Many traffic signals were not working and many residents had to cope with homes that were flooded.
The storm hit Joburg at around 3.30pm on 9 October and some residents recorded about 30mm of rain within an hour. The Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) said they have started assessing the damage to the road infrastructure caused by the heavy storm.
MMC for Transport, Nonhlanhla Makhuba, said the City is focusing on hotspots where homes and properties were affected the most and where roads and bridges have become inaccessible.
“As part of JRA’s proactive measures to minimise urban and residential flooding, routine maintenance of stormwater drainage system was done leading up to the rainy season. Jet vac machines were used to remove rubble, refuse and soil run-offs,” Makhuba said.
“Silted stormwater systems are being unblocked city-wide and some collapsed walls will need to be reconstructed. Nine bridges are receiving maintenance.”
Three construction projects were also impacted by the heavy downpours.
Motorists are urged to obey road signs, traffic signals and especially road closures due to flooded bridges or unsafe driving conditions. In the event of a flash flood, or where residents are at risk, they should immediately evacuate the area and seek a place of safety.
Residents and road users are encouraged to report all road and storm-related emergencies to 0860 562 874, send an email to hotline@jra.org.za, tweet to @MyJra or contact the agency through its Find and Fix mobile app.
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