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The Mpumalanga Department of Public Works, Roads, and Transport will pay out R3.1 million in claims for vehicle damage caused by potholes in the first quarter of the 2024/2025 financial year. This was disclosed during a recent Portfolio Committee meeting at the provincial legislature, which highlighted concerns over the deteriorating road conditions across the province.
Over 50 Claims Filed in Early 2024
More than 50 claims were submitted in the first quarter alone, signaling the widespread impact of potholes on Mpumalanga roads. So far, the department has paid out R362,000 to settle 19 claims, while 39 others remain under review, raising concerns about potential budgetary strain.
Teboho Sekaledi, the DA spokesperson for public works in Mpumalanga, voiced frustration at the meeting, saying, “Potholes are not just a nuisance; they represent a dangerous, costly burden that has been neglected for too long. Each rand spent on compensation could have gone toward road repairs, leaving our roads in worse condition and communities frustrated.”
Calls for Accountability in Road Maintenance
The DA has vowed to hold the ANC-led government accountable for the province’s road maintenance strategy, describing it as inadequate. Sekaledi emphasized the urgent need for a comprehensive road infrastructure plan, saying, “Neglecting road infrastructure has costly consequences for all residents. The DA will not rest until this critical issue is addressed.”
Comparisons with Limpopo Pothole Case
In a striking comparison, the Limpopo High Court recently awarded R3.1 million to Oliver Mukansi, who suffered injuries when his vehicle struck a pothole in 2011. This case underscored the high costs of poor road maintenance, with the Road Accident Fund held fully liable for Mukansi’s damages.
While the financial burden from road conditions varies between provinces, the situation underscores a nationwide challenge in road safety. Both cases reflect the urgent need for government intervention to improve road infrastructure across South Africa.
