POLOKWANE – Polokwane motorists and pedestrians are facing significant safety risks as numerous traffic lights across the city remain non-functional.

The lack of operational traffic lights has created chaos at major intersections, leading to increased traffic congestion and heightened chances of accidents.

Among the affected intersections are:

• Biccard and Excelsior
• Dorp and Excelsior
• Dorp and Rissik
• Biccard and Hospital
• The Westernburg and Matlala robot
• Broadlands
• Goseame
• Marshall and Webster
• Dorp and Thabo Mbeki

These intersections have become hotspots of frustration and danger for drivers and pedestrians alike.

Motorists have reported near-misses, while pedestrians are left to navigate busy roads without clear guidance.

Residents have expressed growing concern over the situation, citing fears of potential accidents, particularly during peak traffic hours.

Municipal Response

The Polokwane Review-Observer contacted the Polokwane Municipality for answers on the matter and the way forward.

Municipal spokesperson Thipa Selala says they acknowledge the inconvenience caused by non-operational traffic lights at key intersections.

“This situation is a result of the escalating theft and vandalism targeting critical municipal infrastructure, including traffic light poles and cables,” he told the Review-Observer.

Selala says the municipality is prioritising the repair and restoration of affected traffic lights, however, theft and vandalism remain significant challenges.

“As a long-term solution, the municipality is exploring the installation of solar-powered traffic lights, which require less cabling and are less susceptible to theft. Enhanced security measures, such as increased patrolling of hotspots and partnerships with law enforcement agencies, are also being implemented,” he said.

When asked if the municipality is able to deploy traffic officers to assist with traffic flow, Selala noted that traffic officers and duty point officers are being deployed to assist in managing traffic.

“Motorists are urged to exercise patience and adhere to traffic rules while these measures are in place,” he said.

On whether there’s a timeline to get the traffic lights fixed, Selala said repairs are being undertaken as quickly as resources allow.

“The theft of infrastructure often delays the process. The municipality is committed to restoring normal functionality as soon as possible, and efforts are underway to ensure expedited repairs.”

Selala concluded by encouraging motorists to report faulty or vandalised traffic lights to the municipality’s call centre at 015 290 2000 or via its social media platforms.

“Any suspicious activities around traffic lights or other municipal infrastructure should also be reported to help safeguard these assets.”