The Johannesburg Roads Agency plans to have fixed the sinkhole along Republic Road by January 2018.
The Randburg Sun previously reported that a section of Republic Road had been closed off since 29 September due to an underground water leakage.
In a statement, the Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) confirmed that an investigation discovered that water flowing outside a stormwater pipe could have been the cause of the junction box base collapse.
The water flowing near the stormwater pipe is believed to be sewerage water. JRA is already working towards resolving the matter according to councillor Nonhlanhla Makhuba, Member of the Mayoral Committee for Transport.
He stated, “The matter is receiving urgent attention from JRA. A contractor has been appointed and the project is expected to be completed in January 2018.”
Costs to repair the sinkhole will be R3.2 million excluding VAT and in the meanwhile, the affected lanes of Republic Road will still be closed off. Traffic will continue to be diverted to ensure that the barricaded area is a safe space.
JRA urges motorists to obey road signs and traffic signals, especially around closed road caused by flooded bridges and unsafe driving conditions.
JRA advises that during a flash flood motorists, pedestrians and residents must immediately evacuate the area and seek a place of safety.
JRA encourages residents and road users to report all road and storm-related emergencies.
Details: Report broken or knocked over traffic lights to the agency on 086 056 2874 or email hotline@jra.org.za.
A more convenient way to report issues would be to download the agency’s Find&Fix phone app or post the issue on Twitter on @MyJRA.
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