Residents of Bekkersdal say a two-year sewer upgrade project has left their roads almost unusable.

Community leader Molatlhegi Sethepo explained that while the project aims to install new sewer pipes, the digging of multiple roads has severely restricted movement and access to the area.

Only the Westonaria entrance remains partially usable, and rainy weather makes conditions worse, with vehicles often getting stuck. This has affected school drop-offs and even funeral processions, with mourners sometimes unable to reach the cemetery.

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Elderly residents say the situation is traumatic, and police vehicles also struggle to enter the area, fuelling rising crime concerns. Sethepo said residents have received little communication from the municipality about delays or progress.

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RWCLM spokesperson Phillip Montshiwa said the Department of Human Settlements is funding the project and that the municipality is overseeing its progress. He added that the contractor has been instructed to prioritise surfacing open roads to prevent further damage during the rainy season.

Read the full story in the Randfontein Herald’s November 28 edition.