Albertina Sisulu Road passing through the Princess informal settlement remains unusable, not only affecting locals but also multiple businesses along that route.
The road is permanently flooded and littered with potholes that are invisible. This severely impacts commerce in the area.
According to Jonathan Strydom supervisor at Plumber’s Market located opposite the informal settlement, they have been running their family business for 30 years, and they’ve seen the road deteriorate in the past four years.
Also read: Motorists and residents suffer on always flooding Albertina Sisulu Road
Strydom says the flooding is caused by rain and water flowing down from the railway station, and due to the lack of sewer lines and drainage systems, the water cannot be directed anywhere.
“The hazardous conditions make it impossible for cars to pass through here, and people avoid this road at all costs. This has resulted in business going quiet.”
“Travelers from Krugersdorp, Witpoortjie, and other areas have to utilise Ontdekkers or South Road to reach our premises, which causes major delays.”
The road’s condition has also created logistical challenges for this business as their deliveries are often delayed or rerouted. “Four businesses have already closed down due to this issue. We can’t close down because we have employed many locals.”
“We have escalated this matter to multiple stakeholders, including ward councillors, and our cries are simply falling on deaf ears.”
A local resident, Ernest Lehihi, alleges that this road has also become a notorious crime spot at night and also an illegal dumping site because garbage trucks cannot use this road.
“Scholar transports cannot use this road anymore, and children have to cross this water before getting to school.
“We just want the city to fix this road permanently and not do quick fixes,” he said.
The Roodepoort Record sent questions to the Johannesburg Road Agency regarding plans for this road, and a detailed follow up will be done once received.
