Johannesburg Roads Agency promises Melrose Estate storm water drain repairs after resident complaints
JRA has said that repairs are scheduled to take place between July 14 and 18, and residents are hoping they will be long-lasting this time.
A damaged storm water drain along Somerville Road in Melrose Estate has sparked concern among residents, who say the recurring issue poses a danger to both motorists and pedestrians. Residents took to community WhatsApp groups to highlight what they describe as ongoing neglect by authorities.
The drain, located near the corner of Somerville Avenue and Melrose Street, has large concrete slabs that have either collapsed into the trench or remain displaced, partially covering the storm water channel. The surrounding road surface is also cracked and uneven, with a worsening pothole adding to the hazard.
Read more: Open drain on 14th Avenue puts Killarney residents at risk
Community member James Nel was among the first to raise the alarm this month. “Where and to whom do we report this badly damaged storm water drain?” he asked, sharing photos that quickly drew attention from other residents.
Another resident responded, saying she had reported the same issue last year. “It seems like they fit the incorrect size each time and never do decent or neat work. It’s frustrating.” According to her, previous repair attempts lacked durability and workmanship, resulting in the problem recurring multiple times.
Residents fear that the open drain and broken slabs could cause serious injury to pedestrians, particularly children and dog walkers, or damage vehicles. The broken infrastructure also poses challenges for storm water flow, potentially leading to blockages or flooding during heavy rains.
Despite community complaints and visible deterioration, the problem had remained unresolved for some time.
Ward councillor Belinda Kayser-Echeozonjoku confirmed that the matter has been raised and logged. “There are a number of road issues in the Melrose area, and along Corlett Drive up to Oxford Road, that also need JRA attention. Storm water drainage issues are a big concern along Melrose Street, as it is also an area prone to flooding with heavy rains.
“We thank residents for being so active, and encourage them to continue reporting road issues via hotline@jra.org.za. Councillors can only escalate service delivery complaints when a reference number is provided. I’ve now logged the issue with Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA). Our urban inspector logged it today (July 8), but it still falls within the 3-7 day window before escalation can take place.”
JRA Head of Regional Operations Khayalethu Gqibitole confirmed that the agency is aware of the problem. “Inspections have already been conducted. The KI slab is not broken, but has shifted out of alignment due to the impact of a heavy vehicle driving over it.”
Gqibitole said repair work is scheduled to take place between July 14 and 18. “The slab will be reset before the end of next week. Measures will be taken to ensure the repairs are durable and correctly installed.”
As the community awaits repairs, many remain hopeful that this time the work will be long-lasting, and that the area will finally be free from repeat disruptions and ongoing safety risks.
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