Motorists travelling along Lynnwood Road have been urged to drive cautiously after heavy rains and ongoing construction led to flooding and muddy conditions at the intersection with January Masilela Drive, close to the bus rapid transit construction area.

Residents described the situation as chaotic and dangerous, with some vehicles reportedly slipping in mud and sustaining tyre damage due to rocks washed into the roadway.

Tshwane metro MMC for Roads and Transport Tlangi Mogale said the broader project is nearing completion.

“The project is almost done. There’s a trench dug at the intersection, causing some flooding. I’ve escalated this to the teams. There’s no need for panic about flooding,” said Mogale.

She added that the trench was dug following the relocation of a major pipeline as part of the bus rapid transit upgrade.

Mogale explained that there are no stormwater drainage issues and the drainage system is working well.

“A big pipeline was relocated, causing the trench. That’s why there’s water buildup, but no one is in danger,” she said.

Regarding traffic control, Mogale said the TMPD should be assisting on-site.

She urged residents to avoid flooded sections, reduce speed significantly, keep extra following distance and use alternative routes where possible.

Pedestrians were also cautioned to avoid walking through muddy floodwater or crossing bridges where water levels are high.

Mogale reiterated that there is no immediate danger and that the situation is being monitored.

“For motorists on Lynnwood Road, they should drive cautiously. No need for alternative routes unless the rain worsens. We’ll monitor the situation and advise if necessary.”

However, resident Gillian Ouma said the situation has become intolerable.

“Today is day two of the nightmare on January Masilela. We are unable to turn from Lynnwood Road into January Masilela due to the rocks and mud,” she said.

According to Ouma, the road is incredibly dangerous, not only due to the mud and cars slipping and sliding, but also due to the rocks that are damaging tyres.

“Tshwane Roads [department] must do something about [the] retaining wall that was promised to stop this nightmare when it rains,” she said.

Aris Ruyter from the Alpha Security Forum said several vehicles had already been stranded in deep water due to heavy rain combined with construction runoff.

Ruyter urged residents to take caution and warned that even shallow-looking water can conceal deep washaways or hidden mud traps.
He added that construction runoff can leave thick clay deposits on the road, reducing traction and braking ability.

“Do not attempt to drive through moving water. SUVs are not immune and can easily stall or lose control.”

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