Malibongwe Drive leaves businesses and residents frustrated as unsurfaced stretch remains
Ward 99 councillor Hendrik Bodenstein confirmed that he will continue pushing for answers regarding Malibongwe Drive.
An unsurfaced stretch on Malibongwe Drive is an accident waiting to happen, says DA MPL Nicole van Dyk.
The section of Malibongwe Drive dug up months ago for what appeared to be a resurfacing project has been left in a deteriorating state, sparking frustration among residents, businesses and motorists. Instead of repairs, the stretch has developed deep potholes and an uneven surface, making driving difficult and dangerous.
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Confusion over responsibility has added to the frustration, with questions about whether the Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) or the provincial government is accountable.
JRA spokesperson Bertha Peters-Scheepers said on July 21 the agency would check whether the project fell under its mandate or the province. A follow-up on July 27 yielded no further information.
Resident Pierre van Wyk said the road’s condition has forced him to change his daily route. “I am now forced to make detours around the suburbs daily to get home. It has been months now with this. I lost a tyre here, and we have been logging calls to JRA as well, but nothing is happening. If it’s not their responsibility, they should communicate.”
Also read: Shots reported on Malibongwe Drive, Randburg
Ward 99 councillor Hendrik Bodenstein confirmed the issue has persisted for months, with residents and businesses complaining about dust and vehicle damage. “The constant flow of vehicles over the damaged road creates dust, affecting air quality and disturbing daily activities,” he said.
Motorists have also reported increased maintenance costs and slower traffic during peak hours. Bodenstein said he has engaged JRA numerous times, but the agency continues to pass the matter back to the province.
Van Dyk, who serves on the provincial transport committee, confirmed Malibongwe is a provincial road. “The province doesn’t have enough resources, but that doesn’t excuse what is happening on this road.
This is an accident waiting to happen. We ask both governments to stop passing the buck and fix the problem.”
Residents and councillors are calling for urgent repairs and clear communication from authorities before the road deteriorates further and poses an even greater risk to motorists.
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