Update: Parkmore sinkhole woes persist as JRA points to water pipe leak

Parkmore residents continue to grapple with the 10-year-old water leak at the corner of 4th Street and Victoria Avenue, as Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) has now confirmed that the sinkhole is suspected to be caused by a leaking Johannesburg Water (JW) pipe.

In a recent update, JRA regional operations manager Khayalethu Gqibitole disclosed that a new service request, SR#5572889, has been logged to address the sinkhole, but no repairs have been carried out to date.

Read more: After 10 years Parkmore residents are fed up with leak

“The sinkhole is suspected to be caused by a JW water pipe leak,” Gqibitole said. Currently, the affected site has been barricaded for safety to prevent vehicles from passing through. Exploratory excavations will be conducted to confirm the cause.

Should it be confirmed as a JW pipe leak, JW will be responsible for repairing the pipe, and JRA will then reinstate and repair the road.”

Residents’ concerns about cases being closed without real solutions were addressed. Gqibitole explained, “We reported this matter to Johannesburg Water to repair the leak. JRA will follow up with JW to ensure the pipe repairs are completed.”

Despite promises, the timeline for permanent repairs remains uncertain. “The estimated time of repair is dependent on Johannesburg Water’s turnaround time strategy,” Gqibitole said.

Also read: Bryanston resident fed up as sewage spills persist despite repeated complaints

In a previous article, JW spokesperson Nombuso Shabalala said, “This is borehole water. JW does not deal with borehole sources.

The councillor has been informed and will communicate with the property owner.” When asked which councillor they spoke to, JW remained mum.

The Sandton Chronicle has reached out to JW again for a comment. The story will be updated once updates become available.

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