Dangerous Dunkeld pavements: A cry for urgent action

The picturesque streets of Dunkeld have become an obstacle course for pedestrians as hazardous pavement conditions continue to pose a significant threat to safety.
Following numerous reports from frustrated residents, the dangerous state of the pavement on North Road has come under the spotlight.

Martin Sweet, a resident in the area, contacted this publication on December 5, voicing his concern after numerous injuries were reported. “Runners have tripped and fallen into this neglected pothole, causing unnecessary harm. It’s unacceptable that our community has to deal with such neglect,” he stated.

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Pavement perils: A community ignored

The deteriorating pavements in Dunkeld have sparked outrage among locals. Sweet recounts his attempts to contact city officials for resolution, only to be met with resistance. Despite numerous reference numbers and formal complaints, no tangible action was taken. “The lack of response is alarming. As someone who has served as a responsive city councillor in the past, I find this level of indifference shocking,” Sweet added.

The situation reached boiling point when reports of a runner injured by a subsided pavement surfaced, highlighting the urgent need for repairs. Concerns extend beyond human safety, with risks also posed to pets navigating these hazardous walkways.

Municipal inefficiency

Sweet’s frustrations echo those of many Dunkeld residents. From August to December, over four months of complaints were ignored. The Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) only acknowledged the issue on 11 December, when the head of regional operations, Khaya Gqibitole, confirmed inspections of the area. “The JRA will schedule repairs for a broken kerb inlet slab on North Road and a subsided reinstatement on Bompas and Cradock streets,” Gqibitole assured.

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A call for accountability

Sweet also raised concerns about the broader implications of municipal inefficiency, particularly for local businesses. He expressed worries over shifting political alliances and how they may impact business operations and responsiveness from local representatives. “These conditions are a reflection of poor governance. If this is how basic infrastructure is handled, what hope do businesses have in such an environment?”

Dunkeld deserves better

As the festive season approaches, the Dunkeld community calls on city officials to prioritise the safety and well-being of its residents. The deteriorating pavements are not just a minor inconvenience but also a significant hazard. It’s high time for the Johannesburg Roads Agency and city councillor to step up and deliver the services their constituents deserve.

For now, the wait continues, and so does the growing frustration of a community that refuses to be ignored.

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