More than 900 residents in Ward 97 who are impacted by dangerous and damaged roads have formally signed a petition urging immediate action on the area’s deteriorating road infrastructure.

Elmari Atterbury of The Service Hub is the driving force behind the Pothole Safari petition, which highlights the widespread infrastructure failure across multiple streets and roads, including:

• Paul Kruger
• Emily Hobhouse (barrier)
• Taylor
• Sixpence
• Krugerrand
• Sovereign
• Deysel
• Pierre

These are just a few of the streets that have drawn attention to the roads’ failure.

Some residents said that the potholes and continuous deterioration of the road have caused damage to their vehicles, and it threatens the safety of both pedestrians and drivers.

A particularly dangerous section has been identified at the corner near the slipway on Paul Kruger Road, close to Life Wilgeheuwel Hospital, which residents describe as posing an immediate safety hazard.

According to Atterbury, the petition is a reflection of the community’s deep frustration and the alleged lack of response from authorities.

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“The level of frustration on the ground is significant. Residents feel unheard for far too long,” she said.

The petition also reflects strong sentiment among residents regarding service delivery and infrastructure spending.

Residents have, according to Atterbury, also made it clear that they are no longer willing to accept ongoing explanations around funding constraints.

“There is a strong and growing sentiment that the City of Johannesburg does have the necessary resources, and that these must be prioritised and directed toward their intended purpose – maintaining infrastructure and delivering services to residents,” she said.

On Friday, April 10, the Roodepoort Northsider visited Sovereign and Krugerrand roads and observed severe deterioration of the surface. The roads are riddled with closely spaced potholes, with at least 20 identified along Krugerrand Road from the bridge up to the intersection with Sovereign Road.

Residents have also attempted to make driving more manageable by filling potholes with bricks and sand, although this has not provided a lasting solution, as motorists are still struggling.

Atterbury confirmed that the petition has been submitted to the Petitions Committee of the City of Johannesburg as well as the Gauteng Provincial Legislature, with residents hoping for attention across multiple levels of government.

She also indicated plans to physically hand over the petition to the MMC for Transport at the next council meeting, should he attend, in an effort to ensure the matter is formally acknowledged at the leadership level.

Questions have been sent to the Johannesburg Roads Agency for comment regarding the condition of the roads, and their response will be published once received.

“This is not simply a petition but a clear call for urgent action and meaningful oversight, particularly in relation to the JRA,” emphasised Atterbury.