Heavy Rains Worsen Trichardt Roads

Recent heavy rains have exacerbated the deteriorating state of roads in Trichardt, particularly the old Bethal Road, which has partially caved in near the scrapyard. Govan Mbeki Municipality (GMM) Mayor Nhlakanipho Zuma and MEC for Public Works, Roads, and Transport, Thulasizwe Thomo, inspected the damage on January 8.

Residents and businesses highlighted that neglect and lack of regular maintenance worsened the damage. Henri Truter, a local commuter, noted that cracks and potholes on the old Bethal Road had been forming for over a year. Efforts to patch the road with tar proved ineffective, while abnormal load trucks contributed to its deterioration.

Other problematic areas include Vincent Tshabalala Street, where gravel used to cover repairs has washed away, leaving motorists to navigate through hazardous conditions. Ambulance drivers have struggled to keep patients stable while accessing Mediclinic Highveld Hospital.

One local property owner has repeatedly used personal resources to lay bricks on Vincent Tshabalala Street after rains washed away the road. However, residents remain frustrated. “We can’t get out of our driveways. Water overflows, and the roads are impassable, even for 4×4 vehicles,” a resident lamented.

Additional issues include overflowing stormwater and sewage systems, posing health risks and damaging vehicles. Donald Green, GMM spokesperson, stated that limited funds hinder comprehensive road restoration. However, targeted repairs, including stormwater maintenance on Carolus Street, the taxi rank, and Paul Kruger Street, are underway.

Green assured that response teams are mobilized to address road infrastructure challenges, including pothole patching and road resurfacing efforts in areas like Ebrahim Daya Street.

The municipality’s interventions aim to prevent further damage, but residents call for more sustainable and comprehensive solutions.