Active citizenry results in change
MELROSE – Melrose resident Ashish Desai witnessed an accident in St Andrews Street in June and realised that the road markings were worn and indistinct.
Ward 74 councillor David Fisher highlighted the power of active and engaged residents making a meaningful contribution to their suburbs.
Melrose resident Ashish Desai witnessed an accident in St Andrews Street in June and realised that the road markings were worn and indistinct.
“With consistent communications and cooperation from the JRA [Joburg Roads Agency] team, we have had the work done and the safety of road users has been improved,” said Fisher.
Desai said that over the years, the volume of traffic passing through Melrose and Birdhaven has increased substantially. “Given the speed at which drivers drive through these suburbs, many of our intersections have had a poor track record for accidents.”
He explained that following a series of fairly serious accidents on St Andrews Street, he decided to seek advice on what could be done through councillor Fisher.
Desai said that the JRA was responsive to Fisher’s request and sent a team to observe and inspect the stretch of road and reverted after a few weeks to recommend that a general upgrade of signage and speed calming be installed.
“Unfortunately, due to lockdown, I had to chase quite a few times to get them to honour their commitment to at least upgrade the signage. We eventually got a JRA team on site on 2 October.”
JRA spokesperson Zoleka Jika explained that the work carried out on St Andrews Street included road widening and road markings to improve traffic flow.
Jika said, “While the teams at the depot regularly assess the roads for any maintenance issues, residents’ reports also assist our inspectors to be carried out within the turn-around time.”
Commenting on this success, Desai said, “I feel really happy that I was able to get this achieved for all the families that live in Melrose and that cycle, walk or jog on our streets. I was actually really blown away that persistent emails can result in change.
“I know it’s small in the overall scheme of things, but I really feel that if others could take on something they’re passionate about, then we could keep our neighbourhood as amazing as it is.”
Fisher said, “This is yet another example of the impact that residents can have if they are active and engaged. I continue to encourage our residents to report issues that they are aware of in their neighbourhood.”
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