Repairs to a damaged section on 5th Street in Wynberg remain delayed as the Johannesburg Roads Agency said responsibility for the site currently lies with Johannesburg Water.

The section outside number 72 5th Street has remained partially collapsed since October last year after a burst pipe required excavation work to repair underground infrastructure. In response to media inquiries, acting head of department for regional operations, Mpho Maruping, said the delay in repairing the road was linked to ongoing processes involving Joburg Water.

Read more: Chaplin Street sinkhole fully repaired as JRA completes final tar work

“The reinstatement was necessitated by a burst pipe, following excavation by Joburg Water to carry out repairs to their infrastructure. Currently, Joburg Water is responsible, as there is a section that requires backfilling and approval of the quotation submitted to Joburg Water for the reinstatement of the stormwater infrastructure,” Maruping said.

According to the roads agency, the damage was formally reported to them in November last year, when Joburg Water indicated that repairs to its infrastructure were underway.

“Constant communication has been maintained with Joburg Water, where progress updates were provided on their pipe repairs.” However, the repair of the damaged road cannot proceed until administrative approval is granted. “A quotation was issued to Joburg Water for the repair of the damaged stormwater infrastructure, and we are currently awaiting approval.

“Once the quotation is approved and we have a team commence onsite, we will communicate the timelines.”

Addressing safety concerns raised by businesses in the area, Maruping said the affected property had closed the damaged entrance and was using an alternative access point while the site remained under the responsibility of Joburg Water.

Also read: Illovo residents await JRA response for Chaplin Street sinkhole

Maruping confirmed that the delay was not related to funding shortages but rather to administrative processes. He added that communication and support for affected businesses should be directed to Joburg Water while the site remains under its control.

Businesses along 5th Street said the prolonged delay continued to disrupt operations and create safety concerns, particularly as customers and delivery vehicles were forced to use alternative access routes.
The publication has sent questions to Joburg Water seeking clarity on the status of repairs, approval timelines, and support measures for affected businesses. Further updates will be provided once a response is received.

Follow us on our WhatsApp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration!