Jack of all trades, master of potholes
Brick by brick he hopes to improve road conditions for all road users
Jack Mkhabela (31) has become known around Van Dyk Park as the pothole angel, taking it upon himself to repair the many potholes that plague the area.
The Tsakane resident started repairing potholes in Mimosa Street at the beginning of the year after seeing how motorists have to dodge wheel-buckling potholes.
“I lost my job due to Covid-19. I was in the area looking for a job when I noticed how bad the road surface is, in this street as well as the entire Van Dyk Park,” said Mkhabela.
“I went to the local dump and found bricks laying around, so I took it, cleaned it and using some makeshift tools, I paved the pothole.”
Jack has been back daily and says that he has managed to fill more than 20 potholes and hopes that he will be able to repair all.
His day starts at 05:30 when he leaves home and makes his way to the area, heavy-duty bag, chisel, hammer and spade in hand.
Once he is close to his destination, he starts scouring the pavements and veld for discarded bricks, which are placed in the heavy-duty bag.
“When I have about 18 to 20 bricks, I go sit in the veld to clean it of any cement or dirt,” he said.
“Then I collect my traffic cones and get ready for the day’s work.
“I square the pothole to the best of my ability and dig it out enough to ensure that the bricks are level with the surface.”
Meticulously paving the holes Jack says that he makes sure that the bricks are placed tightly to ensure that it doesn’t move or shift when vehicles, as well as trucks, drive over them.
“The community support me and often stop to say thank you and to give me a donation,” he said.
“I am still looking for a job but while I wait, I will continue to repair the roads. It is nice to be of help to others and to make a difference.”
Residents and motorists are raving about the work that has been done.
“If you look at the sections that the metro has fixed and the parts that Jack has done, his workmanship greatly outshines the metro’s,” said Brenda Steenkamp, frequent road user.
“His work and how he does it is without a doubt superior. He deserves our appreciation.”
To get in touch with Mkhabela direct an email to jani@caxton.co.za.
Also Read: Potholes: Tell us what’s on your mind
Also Read: WATCH: Potholes epidemic on City’s roads frustrates drivers
