Contractual disputes stall Malibongwe Drive repairs as unsurfaced stretch deteriorates
Johannesburg Road Agency explains the delays that are effecting the stretch of Malibongwe Drive.
Johannesburg Road Agency (JRA) head of infrastructure development Kwazelela Mcetywa confirmed that the entity is aware of the issue on Malibongwe Drive.
A section of the drive was dug up months back for what appeared to be a resurfacing project, but motorists and nearby businesses are still waiting for the work to be completed.
Instead of a smoother road, drivers face potholes, loose gravel, and an uneven surface that has become increasingly hazardous.
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The unfinished project has also taken a toll on businesses and residents. Passing vehicles kick up large clouds of dust throughout the day, affecting air quality, and the poor road conditions are damaging vehicles and creating traffic congestion on the busy road.
Mcetywa explained that they appointed a contractor to undertake road resurfacing on Malibongwe Drive and South Road in Linden. Milling and site preparations had begun, but were unfortunately halted due to contractual issues.
“JRA is currently in the process of resolving these contractual issues to ensure the contractor returns to site and completes all outstanding works.”
He added that while this matter is in the process of being resolved, the appointed contractor is undertaking temporary maintenance along the affected section.
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“They are patching and filling potholes, sweeping and removing loose stones, and implementing all necessary measures to improve road safety and minimise the risk of damage to vehicles.”
The entity apologises to road users for the inconvenience caused, but residents are calling on relevant authorities to provide a timeline for completion and restoration of the road to a safe condition before the situation worsens further.
The entity did not share any timeline on when the issue might be attended to, but according to Ward 99 councillor Hendrik Bodenstein, they have indicated that they will prioritise the repairs.
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