POLOKWANE – The quality of road infrastructure work carried out by Polokwane Municipality has come under scrutiny from residents following the re-emergence of potholes after the recent heavy rains.

Poor repair quality?

Concerns were raised about potholes recurring in the same locations that were patched in the latter months of 2025 across several parts of the city, including Bendor, Ladanna, the central business district (CBD) and surrounding areas.

The municipality continued with its pothole patching programme until the December recess, approximately four to five months before consistent rainfall hit the city over the past two weeks.

Many of the repaired sections have, however since deteriorated, particularly along Bulawayo, Witklip and Pietersburg streets in Ladanna, Thabo Mbeki, Bok and Potgieter streets.

Some residents interviewed by Polokwane Observer suggested that the quality of materials or workmanship may have contributed to the damage, calling for improvements to ensure more reliable and durable road infrastructure.

Municipality blames rainfall

Municipal spokesperson Thipa Selala attributed the resurfacing of potholes to the recent heavy rainfall, dismissing claims of neglect.

“Much like the accelerated growth of grass, the emergence of potholes is caused by the rainfall. Our roads and stormwater teams, with the environmental unit, are already on the ground attending to affected areas in a phased and systematic manner.”

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Selala added that repair works and grass-cutting operations are under way and will continue across all wards as conditions allow.

On Monday morning, Polokwane Observer observed municipal workers removing sand along Witklip Street near the municipal traffic department. Workers on site said the clearing was in preparation for pothole filling.

Safety concerns for motorists and pedestrians

Meanwhile, motorists and pedestrians who regularly use the road connecting to the Dendron Road, as well as Vermikuliet Street linking Nelson Mandela Drive to Landdros Maré, raised safety concerns.

They said overgrown grass was obscuring driveways and walkways, increasing the risk of accidents and potential criminal activity.

The city centre did not experience flooding similar to 2022, which Selala attributed to a stabilised stormwater system previously affected by overgrown grass and litter blockages.

He cautioned that repairs may take time due to the scale of the problem. “We kindly ask residents for patience and understanding,” he said.