Johannesburg Road Agency is aware of sinkholes on Denise Circle
JRA has confirmed that it has investigated the sinkholes around Denise Circle, discovering more on nearby streets.
Residents around Denise Circle in Blairgowrie were left shaken after two deep sinkholes suddenly appeared near a popular community park.
One sinkhole has opened directly in the middle of the road, posing a serious risk to motorists and cyclists using the residential street. The second, equally dangerous, formed on the pavement just metres away, along a stretch frequently used by families, joggers, and dog walkers.
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Johannesburg Road Agency (JRA) head of regional operations Khaya Gqibitole said they are aware of the sinkholes, and that their regional teams have inspected the area, identifying more.
The entity’s contractors identified more sinkholes near the kerb inlet – a roadside opening that channels rainwater into the storm water drain – along End Street and Neeron Road.
“Another sinkhole looked like a junction box with the cover stolen. A junction box is an underground container protecting electrical or communication cables. Initial assessments indicated there is a damaged structure beneath the road’s surface. Another sinkhole was found on Judy Road.”
The four sites have been barricaded for the safety of motorists and pedestrians. Gqibitole confirmed that further investigations are planned to take place within the month of April, which will involve excavations of the affected road sections.
“This will assist in assessing the depth of the sinkholes, any damage to critical underground infrastructure, and determining the cause of the sinkholes. Thereafter, the remedial/repairs scope will be planned and designed. Once extensive investigations are concluded, the repair timelines will be communicated by JRA.”
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Gqibitole added that the root cause of the sinkhole will be determined once the excavation commences.
“The road reserve usually contains multiple services, including electricity cables, fibre-optic cables, storm water drainage pipes, water and sewer pipes, and various other utility services.”
Until repairs are made, residents are urged to exercise extreme caution to prevent what could become a tragic accident.
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