Manhole cover finally replaced after residents’ complaints
Councillor Lucinda Harman, of Ward 102, successfully pressured the JRA to replace a dangerous missing manhole cover.
After weeks of concern from residents, and multiple reports from local councillor Lucinda Harman of Ward 102, the missing manhole cover at a busy intersection has finally been replaced.
The missing cover, located at the intersection of Winnie Mandela Drive and Republic Road, had become a significant hazard for drivers, with many complaining about damage to their vehicles.
One resident remarked, “This issue has damaged my car. It has been a nightmare driving through the intersection.”
Harman took action after the issue was repeatedly brought to her attention. “This should have been resolved much sooner,” she stated, emphasising that the safety of residents is paramount.
“It is unacceptable that this problem persisted for so long.”
Harman explained that she reported the issue multiple times to the Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA), urging them to address the dangerous situation.
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“I escalated the matter, as did several residents, but the JRA did not acknowledge the urgency, they completely ignored my inquiries and the ones of the residents. Eventually, I reached out to the Region B director for assistance.”
Despite the delays, the repair was finally completed last week, much to the relief of the local community.
Menzi Gumbo, a daily user of the road, expressed gratitude for the councillor’s persistence.
“It is great that the road has finally been fixed, but it shouldn’t have taken this long.”
Khayalethu Gqibitole, the JRA acting head of regional operations, confirmed that the manhole cover is now securely in place, and the intersection is once again safe for drivers and pedestrians alike.
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