THE Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) has started clean-up operations and damage assessments of the road and related infrastructure damage caused by the the recent heavy storm across the city.
MMC for Transport Clr Nonhlanhla Makhuba confirmed, “We are aware of several low lying bridges overtopping. Sinkholes have developed requiring road closures and some road surfaces are lifting. Bridge abutment structures have been eroded, there are traffic signal outages and properties and houses have been flooded.”
Clean-up operations have begun. Teams are focusing on hot spot areas where homes and properties were worst affected. They are also focusing on roads and bridges that have become inaccessible and on areas where traffic mobility has been obstructed.
As part of JRA’s proactive measures to minimise urban and residential flooding, routine maintenance of storm water drainage systems has been carried out. Jet vac machines have been used to remove rubble, refuse and soil run-offs.
“City-wide, silted stormwater systems are being unblocked, and some collapsed walls will need to be reconstructed. Nine bridges are receiving maintenance attention ranging from issues such as silting and debris blockages, to erosion of bridge abutments,” she said.
Motorists are urged to obey road signs, traffic signals and especially road closures due to flooded bridges or unsafe driving conditions. In the event of a flash flood, or where residents are at risk, it is advisable to immediately evacuate the area and seek a place of safety. Residents and road users are encouraged to report all road and storm related emergencies to 0860 562 874/ hotline@jra.org.za / twitter @MyJra or JRA Find&Fix mobile app.
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