Motorists driving on Garsfontein Road, particularly the 3.3km stretch between Woodlands Shopping Complex and Mooikloof Ridge, are demanding immediate pothole repairs.

The route serves as a critical economic corridor, connecting several affluent eastern suburbs and is heavily used by residents, businesses, and daily commuters.

However, road users say the worsening infrastructure is now posing significant safety and financial risks.

Motorists are currently forced to navigate an estimated 30 potholes affecting both lanes of traffic.

Several of these potholes are reportedly so deep to cause major vehicle damage and increase the risk of accidents.

The concerns raised are further aggravated by the lack of streetlights, making it extremely dangerous for motorists driving at night.

Residents acknowledge ongoing infrastructure upgrades in the area, including the expansion of the two-lane Garsfontein Road and parts of Solomon Mahlangu Drive into a four-lane carriageway.

The project includes a divided four-lane stretch between January Masilela Drive and Lorista Street, with pedestrian lanes. Solomon Mahlangu Drive is also set to be upgraded into a four-lane section extending to Gilda Street and Delfi Avenue.

Despite these developments, residents said the specific stretch from Woodlands remains severely neglected.

The road also serves as a key access route linking the developing Mooikloof Mega City, further increasing traffic volumes and infrastructure pressure.

Ward 101 councillor Malcolm de Klerk said the Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport continues to allow roads within its jurisdiction to deteriorate.

“Gauteng is letting the City of Tshwane down and its residents. We need to continue raising awareness, while also exploring different avenues to get the provincial government to acknowledge the road crisis we are facing,” said De Klerk.

A motorist, Marius Heyns, who uses the road daily, expressed frustration over the conditions.

“I drive this road every single day and it has become unbearable. You cannot focus on normal driving anymore because you are constantly swerving to avoid potholes.”

Heyns said it is stressful, dangerous and extremely frustrating.

“One moment you are trying to avoid a pothole on your left, the next you are forced to move into another lane to avoid an even bigger one. It creates a serious risk of collisions,” said Heyns.

He added that the road is pitch black at night, making the situation significantly worse.

“At night, it is a nightmare. You simply cannot see some of the potholes until you are right on top of them. Many of them are so deep that hitting one could easily damage tyres, rims or suspension.”

He added that the cost of vehicle repairs is not something most residents can just bear repeatedly.

“What makes residents even more upset is that this is supposed to be a well-developed and economically important area, yet the road infrastructure is falling apart.”

Heyns said residents and road users feel ignored, despite repeatedly raising the issue.

“We pay rates and taxes, and many people rely on this route to get to work, school and businesses. Instead of feeling safe driving here, people are angry and anxious every time they have to use this road.”

The metro did not respond to media inquiries regarding the condition of the road.

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