In response to growing concerns from residents about the state of Mosidi Street, Jeanette Tshite, municipal spokesperson, has provided an update on the road repairs and the ongoing issues facing the community.
For several months, Mosidi Street in Ikageng has been under construction, following significant water damage that has compromised the road’s infrastructure. The road, built over a wetland, has suffered from severe erosion of its base and sub-base layers, necessitating a complete redesign and reconstruction.
Residents, including Nozandile Rapoo, have voiced their frustration over the incomplete and deteriorating condition of the street. Many have expressed concerns about safety hazards, vehicle damage, and unsanitary conditions resulting from the ongoing roadworks.
In a statement, Jeanette Tshite acknowledged the community’s frustrations and the challenges faced in addressing the issues. “We understand the inconvenience and safety concerns that the state of Mosidi Street has caused. The conditions of the road are indeed a serious issue, and we are committed to finding a solution that will address both the immediate and long-term needs of the community.”
Tshite explained that the initial road maintenance work was insufficient due to the severe erosion of the road’s underlying layers. As a result, the municipality sought a geo technical assessment to determine the best course of action. The assessment confirmed that a complete reconstruction of the road was necessary to accommodate the unique ground conditions of the site.
The municipality has requested grant funding from the Project Management Unit (PMU) to reclassify the road repair as a capital project, as the extent of the work required was not anticipated in the initial budget. Tshite emphasized that this process is essential for securing the necessary resources to carry out a thorough and effective repair.
“We are aware that this process takes time, and we have requested the PMU to expedite the grant funding to enable us to start the project within the current financial year. In the meantime, we have instructed the Road Maintenance Team to implement temporary measures to mitigate the impact on residents and traffic,” Tshite said.
However, these temporary measures, including a gravel surface to manage water runoff and improve accessibility, have met with resistance from residents who are concerned about potential dust and health hazards.
Tshite assured the community that their concerns are being taken seriously. “We are actively working to address these temporary issues and will explore additional solutions to minimize dust and other health risks. Our goal is to ensure that residents are not unduly affected while we work on a permanent resolution.”
She also mentioned that the municipality plans to establish a Project Steering Committee (PSC) to oversee the reconstruction project and keep residents informed. This committee will include representatives from the community to ensure that their voices are heard throughout the project.
Tshite concluded by urging residents to remain patient and assured them that the municipality is committed to resolving the issues on Mosidi Street as swiftly and effectively as possible. “We appreciate the community’s patience and cooperation as we navigate these challenges. Our priority is to deliver a safe and well-constructed road that meets the needs of Ikageng.”
