The Tshwane metro has reported a growing issue of repeated vandalism and cable theft targeting traffic signal infrastructure across the city.

Certain intersections have become too costly to repair repeatedly, forcing the municipality to take drastic measures.

This issue recently led to the decommissioning of traffic signals at two intersections along Botha Avenue and Hofmeyer Road in Lyttelton Manor, Centurion.

Metro spokesperson Lindela Mashigo told Rekord that the final decision to decommission these traffic signals was made on January 30, after careful consideration.

“The decision was prompted by repeated incidents of cable theft and vandalism, which caused extensive and recurring damage to the infrastructure,” stated Mashigo.

He explained that the cost of ongoing repairs eventually became comparable to installing entirely new signalised intersections, which made it increasingly difficult for the city to justify continuous repairs, especially given its current budget constraints.

“Due to financial limitations and the need to prioritise essential service delivery across the city, available resources have been redirected to areas where they will have the greatest impact. The city is actively exploring funding opportunities and long-term solutions to reinstate or upgrade these intersections when resources allow,” he said.

Mashigo highlighted that the vandalism at these intersections has been an ongoing issue for several years.

“Initially, the city managed to conduct minor repairs, as the costs were manageable under the regular budget for traffic signal maintenance. However, as the level of vandalism escalated, the cost of repairs increased significantly, surpassing the annual allocated maintenance fund.”

He provided a breakdown of the costs involved, with minor vandalism, such as cable theft or damage to controllers, costing the city about R280 000 per incident.

Major vandalism, which includes the theft of cables, controllers, signal cabling, and signal heads, can cost between R800 000 and R900 000 to restore a single intersection to full operation.

Mashigo confirmed that this issue is not limited to Centurion but is occurring across all regions of Pretoria.

“Isolated intersections and those located near illegal settlements are particularly vulnerable to vandalism and theft. To mitigate the problem, the city has considered protective measures, such as using stronger, tamper-resistant boxes to house and protect controllers,” he stated.

However, Mashigo noted that in the case of the two intersections along Botha Avenue and Hofmeyer Road, cables remain the most vulnerable components, as they are repeatedly stolen.

He added that all vandalism cases are reported to the SAPS and the TMPD for law enforcement action.

In the meantime, stop signs have been installed at the affected intersections, and motorists are required to stop and follow the rules of the road before proceeding.

Mashigo assured residents that the city has long-term plans to reinstall traffic signals at these intersections, but this will depend on the availability of funds.

“To ensure road safety, road users and pedestrians are reminded to approach signalised or stop-controlled intersections with caution. Obeying traffic laws is essential to avoid injuries or fatalities,” he added.

Freedom Front Plus councillor Wesley Jacobs elaborated on the process of decommissioning traffic signals, explaining that it is undertaken only when the number of vandalism incidents becomes too high and the financial burden of repairs becomes unsustainable.

He added that the process involves downgrading the intersection to a four-way stop by installing stop signs at every entry point.

Jacobs also revealed that the city’s regional team averages two traffic signal repairs per day.

However, he noted that there is no proactive or reactive maintenance in place to prevent or address such issues more efficiently.

He explained that 99% of Centurion operates as an automotive-based traffic system, where maintenance is limited to reactive repairs when damage occurs.

“The city has no actual budget for traffic signal upgrades. Instead, it works with the maintenance budget to repair and replace only what is necessary for functionality, such as controllers and light bulbs.”

Jacobs also highlighted a critical issue regarding the supply of copper power cables needed to repair traffic lights.

“These cables are sourced from the electricity department, but a recent tender to procure a supplier failed when all bids were disqualified due to administrative issues.”

This has further delayed the city’s ability to repair and maintain traffic signals effectively.

“Vandalism at the Botha Avenue and Hofmeyer Road intersections has been a problem for about three to four years, with criminals frequently targeting cables and control boxes, leading to costly repairs,” stated Jacobs.

He added that other areas in Lyttelton Manor, particularly along Botha Avenue, are facing similar challenges.

Meanwhile, Ward 78 councillor Peter Sutton provided an update to residents on February 5 during a Centurion council meeting.

He stated that traffic signal faults were a key topic of discussion at the Regional Council Forum meeting before it was postponed.

Sutton highlighted specific issues at the intersection of Lupine and Botha avenues in Doringkloof.

He explained that two separate problems were contributing to ongoing faults at this location.

“The first issue was a shortage of materials, which officials have now resolved. I hope this will lead to a smoother response to traffic signal faults in the future, although this remains to be seen in practice,” said Sutton.

The second issue involved a persistent problem with a traffic light at the corner of Lupin and Botha avenues, which frequently flickers red.

Sutton explained that an official confirmed that the controller box feeding this light is over 15 years old and has been causing ongoing issues.

“I’m pleased to hear that progress is being made toward finding a long-term solution for this traffic light,” he said.

He added that he would focus on ensuring the controller box is replaced and would continue monitoring the situation while keeping residents informed.

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