Trucks cause traffic chaos
The Herald was shocked to see more than 25 trucks parking on the side of the road and others parking behind people's car, blocking their movement.
A string of trucks parking on the side of the road on the R28 heading towards Krugersdorp have caused much outrage in the community of Randfontein.
According to residents of the area, the trucks are a daily problem, causing congestion on the roads and adding to the already substantial pothole problem experienced in Randfontein.
The Herald has been inundated with phone calls from residents with regards to the matter and decided to investigate the claims.
Upon arrival at the road more than 25 trucks were parked on the side of the road, some even stopping behind people’s cars, blocking their movement.
According to information received, the trucks are meant to make deliveries at Wilmar Continental, formerly SA Oil Mills, however, the company does not have the facilities to accommodate the fleet.
As a result, the trucks parking along Main Road, Village Street, and even Railway Street.
According to one resident who does not wish to be named, the trucks in question have been parking on the side of the road for more than four days.
“There are always trucks around here, but the past few days its been worse than usual.
“People come from wherever they come from and do as they please here in Randfontein
“It cannot be correct for massive trucks to be parking on the side of road for as long as they want without being considerate to other road users.”
The Herald has contacted Randfontein Traffic Chief Kenny Mampondo who was not available for comment.
Meanwhile, Wilmar Continental General Manager Leon Niemand apologises for the inconvenience caused and says that this will unfortunately go on for another week or two.
“We really do apologise for any inconvenience caused by the trucks.
“We are in the process of receiving raw material to fill up our storage containers and unfortunately, it all has to come in at once,” says Niemand.
Asked on the issue of trucks being a contributing factor to the bad state of the roads, Niemand says that as an industrial company, they do pay their levies to the municipality to maintain infrastructure in Randfontein and that the company obeys to all municipal bylaws in all operations.
