Upper bridge rehabilitation set to begin in Buccleuch

Rainy weeks in Buccleuch present challenges for motorist traversing the roads in and out of the community; especially when roads flood.

Buccleuch Residents’ Association (BRA) chairperson Lauren Nightingale cited two low-bridge floods on Bridge Road during last week’s rains across Johannesburg, and some road damage, all which the Johannesburg Road Agency (JRA) tended to.

“But that was filled relatively fast, and JRA cleared [the road],” Nightingale said, adding that “JRA have started on the upper bridge rehabilitation project.”

Nightingale concluded with an update on challenges encountered on the roads in Buccleuch between January 17 – 18, as well as briefly mentioning a solar initiative happening in the community.

“First day back at school was a nightmare for road users in Buccleuch. On the upside, some previously dark streets in Buccleuch will be benefitting from the solar street light initiative.

The JRA responded saying that there had not been any reports made by the Buccleuch community, since it started raining but after it was flooded on the January 5, the JRA depot took the initiative to clean and clear up rubble and debris mentioned by Nightingale.

JRA spokesperson Bertha Peters-Scheepers confirmed that the rehabilitation project was kicking off on January 25 at the Buccleuch high-rise bridge.

“[We] Will be hosting a sod-turning event this Thursday for the start of the Buccleuch bridge repair project,” said Peters-Scheepers.

Peters-Scheepers said JRA teams were actively engaged in clearing debris from blocked drains, storm water systems, and bridges impeding water flow across the city.

“With the current heavy rains falling on the city’s road network, the Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) teams are on the ground addressing the worst flood affected areas to mitigate the impact on road users, residents, and properties,” Peters-Scheepers said. “The agency has mobilized additional resources, including Accelerated Field Services teams to assist with skoffeling and clearing kerb inlets as well as routine maintenance contractors for clearing major routes. Regional standby teams with sandbags, excavators and jetvac pumps, are quickly responding to emergencies.”

Peters-Scheepers concluded with advising motorists and road users to exercise caution, and log their concerns, when they find themselves driving along a road in dire need of attention.

The JRA urges the public to:

• Drive cautiously and avoid flooded areas.
• Report any road damage or blockages immediately.
• Stay informed about weather warnings and advisories.

Related stories: JRA breaks down the cost of fixing signage posts

JRA shares tips of driving in the rain