Relief for Olievenhoutbosch motorists as intersection gets new traffic lights

After more than a year of chaos, frustration, and safety concerns surrounding one of Olievenhoutbosch’s busiest routes, motorists are finally breathing a sigh of relief, following the replacement of traffic lights at the intersection of the R55 and N14.

PR councillor for the DA, Adriana Randall, said vandalism and theft of components had left the traffic lights not working correctly, resulting in months of gridlock and increased risks for both motorists and pedestrians.

She explained that the Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport has now attended to the replacements and confirmed that the lights at the intersection were restored last week, while work is still expected to continue at the Waterberg Road and R55 intersection.

In an interview with Rekord, Randall said the period without functioning traffic lights caused widespread frustration.

“Motorists were frustrated and impatient, leading to road rage and accidents. Waiting longer at traffic lights increases the risk of being mugged or robbed,” she said.

She explained that other intersections often had flickering red lights, which only added to motorists’ anxiety.

Although no specific reason was given to residents for the lengthy delays, Randall believes the matter came down to resource allocation.

“From what I gathered, there is a priority list and limited financial resources for replacements. There is also concern that replacements might be stolen or vandalised again. That’s why they chose solar, to help keep the traffic light operational,” she said.

She confirmed that the newly installed traffic signals are supported by cameras and solar power to ensure optimal functioning and long-term sustainability.

Work on traffic lights corner R55 & Waterberg Road, Olievenhoutbosch is underway. Security cameras are also being installed with solar panels to fight vandalism at this busy intersection. #CenturionMatters https://t.co/yIaLamT58k pic.twitter.com/C0iLYm7b83

— ActionSA Tshwane Caucus (@ActionSATshwane) August 15, 2025

“I am happy about the installation of cameras as well. This is a big step in using technology to make a busy road safer.

“Taxis often use this road, so it’s important to inform them about this change,” added Randall.

Randall noted that it’s not feasible to have traffic officers on duty every day, and having cameras helps various groups, including SAPS, TMPD, and insurance companies, especially during accidents.

“Residents in the area, particularly parents with children at a nearby school, have already noted improvements in traffic flow and safety. They believe traffic flow will be better and safer. This will reduce queues at busy intersections,” she said.

Motorists who use the road daily have also welcomed the repairs with relief.

Donovan Ngobese, who lives in Olievenhoutbosch and drives through the intersection on his way home from work, said the dysfunctional lights had been a nightmare since last year.

“Every evening, I would find myself stuck in long queues, and tempers on the road were always high. I’ve seen accidents and near-misses happen right in front of me, and at times I worried about getting home safely,” he said.

Ngobese explained that the lack of proper traffic control also exposed him to crime.

“There were moments when I was anxious about smash-and-grabs because cars were at a standstill. The return of the traffic lights has relieved me greatly. I can finally drive through without stress and feel that the authorities actually listened.”

He added that the installation of cameras also reassures him.

“I think it will help keep reckless drivers in check. I feel safer knowing that there is proper monitoring at the intersection.”

Another motorist, Elizabeth Mabena, also shared her relief.

“As someone who often travels with my children in the mornings, those broken lights made the school run stressful and dangerous.

“I always had to leave home earlier than usual because traffic was so unpredictable,” she said.

Mabena added that she had grown tired of explaining to her children why cars kept cutting in and out at the junction.

“It was chaotic, and the taxis in particular made things worse. Now with the new traffic lights working, I can already see that things are moving more smoothly, and I feel much more at ease on the road,” she said.

Olievenhoutbosch CPF chairperson, Lukas Olivier, said the repairs mark a crucial turning point for community safety.

Olivier added that the repairs are expected to slow traffic, reduce accidents, and curb criminal activity.

“The area has been a hotspot for smash-and-grab incidents. Crime was regular in the area due to the traffic lights not working.”

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