UPDATE: CR Swart pothole problem reaching its end

Repairs to the giant pothole on the corner of Kowie Avenue and CR Swart Drive is nearing its end, according to the local ward councillor.

Ward 134 councillor Wendy Alexander said, “The challenge with this location is that the pipe size is not standard which has greatly complicated the repair process.
“I apologise for the delay in this reinstatement and I am committed to ensuring that this issue is resolved.”

Joburg Water left the hole open as the repair was not fully completed, and unfortunately, the pipe leaked again in January.

The site was then handed over to the Johannesburg Roads Agency. During the site inspection, it was discovered that the stormwater system was damaged.

“When Johannesburg Water repaired the leak, unfortunately, they damaged the road,” Alexander added.

She said when it came to the reinstatement of the road, it was extremely challenging as Joburg Water and the Johannesburg Roads Agency have to work together to finalise the issue.

Alexander added that the agency made the decision to make use of contractors due to the engineering requirements of this project. When contractors are used, the City’s procurement process comes into play, which can delay the process.

“As a councillor, I am not allowed to be involved in the procurement process. The procurement is managed by the Johannesburg Roads Agency.”

According to Alexander, this is how the reinstatement process works and why it has taken so long:

• Joburg Water repairs the leak, and if the road is damaged, Joburg Water needs to apply for an emergency wayleave from the regional Johannesburg Roads Agency office
• The Joburg Water repair site will remain open to ensure that the leak has been repaired completely
• The site needs to be completely dry before Joburg Water will backfill and compact the repair site
• Joburg Water needs to arrange a site meeting with the Johannesburg Roads Agency for a site inspection
• The Johannesburg Roads Agency completes a ‘completion certificate’ (which forms part of the wayleave application) during the site inspection
• Joburg Water then creates a ‘work order’ necessary to complete the reinstatement
• The site is then handed over to the Johannesburg Roads Agency.

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