Johannesburg Water (JW) has confirmed that they have attended to the sewage leak on Bram Fischer Drive, and that Johannesburg Road Agency (JRA) is now responsible for the repairs and reinstatements.

Johannesburg Water spokesperson Nombuso Shabalala explained that the entity conducted investigations into the foul, smelling black water that was leaking from a storm water drain along the roadway. Shabalala said that rugs, clothes, and other foreign objects in the sewer system caused the blockage, and that it has since been cleared.

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Close to the drain lies a large road excavation, left after pipe burst repairs by JW. The hole takes over a portion of the busy, two-lane Bram Fischer Drive, raising safety concerns as motorist are forced to use one lane. The issue has also had a negative impact on nearby businesses.

Zak Madaree, who works at one of the nearby businesses, explained that the excavation has been left open directly in front of their gate, effectively blocking access to their business. “This is making it extremely difficult for customers and our delivery vehicles to leave the premises safely. The impact is not only on our business. It is also creating a hazard for other road users, as vehicles approaching the excavation are being forced to move into the next lane to get around the work area. This creates unnecessary congestion and increases the risk of an accident, particularly when larger vehicles are trying to pass.”

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He added that, for a business that relies heavily on customer access, deliveries, and vehicles coming in and out throughout the day, having their gate effectively obstructed is having a direct and negative impact on their operations and business. “What is particularly concerning is that the excavation has been left open without the matter being properly resolved, leaving both businesses and motorists to deal with the consequences.”

Shabalala has confirmed that the leak was caused by ageing infrastructure, and further stated that the entity has an existing service level agreement (SLA) with JRA regarding reinstatements. “The entity has an existing SLA with JRA regarding reinstatements. The matter will be escalated to JRA for repairs, but we cannot give timelines on behalf of JRA.” She added that the work order for reinstatement was done and submitted to JRA by Johannesburg Water.

JRA spokesperson Bertha Scheepers confirmed that the entity is aware of the excavation. “Plans are underway to reinstate soon, as part of our ongoing maintenance programme. In the meantime, JRA teams have barricaded the affected section to ensure the safety of road users. We will confirm the estimated time of restoration in due course.”

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