A section of Malibongwe Drive that was dug up several months ago for what appeared to be a road resurfacing project has been left in a deteriorating condition, causing growing frustration among residents, businesses and motorists.

Instead of being repaired, the stretch of road has developed deep potholes and an uneven surface, making it difficult and potentially dangerous to drive on.

Johannesburg Road Agency plans investigations into identified sinkholes in Blairgowrie

Ward 99 councillor Hendrik Bodenstein conducted an oversight. He confirmed that the issue has been going on for months, with residents and business owners complaining about dust and damage to their cars.

“The constant flow of vehicles over the damaged road creates dust, affecting air quality and disturbing their daily activities,” he said.

Motorists have also complained that the road’s poor condition is damaging their vehicles, increasing maintenance costs, and slowing traffic during peak hours.

He added that he has engaged with the Joburg Roads Agency (JRA) numerous times, and they keep passing it back to the provincial government.

Bodenstein said the lack of communication has added to the frustration of those who use the route every day.

Also read: Emergency services respond to house fire on Kowie Road in Randpark Ridge

“We will continue to try and get answers; I have now involved Nicole van Dyk, a member of the Gauteng Provincial Legislature for the Democratic Alliance.”

Resident Pierre van Wyk is calling on the relevant authorities to clarify who is responsible for the project and to urgently complete the repairs before the road deteriorates further and poses an even greater risk to road users.

“It has been months now with this. I had lost a tyre here, and we have been logging calls to JRA as well, but nothing is happening. If it’s not their (JRA) responsibility, they should communicate.”

Van Wyk said he is now forced to make detours to avoid Malibongwe Drive on his way home.

JRA was sent queries about the issue, and spokesperson Bertha Peters-Scheepers said she will check whether this is a JRA or provincial project. An update will be provided.

Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates!