Municipality responds to growing pothole crisis in Komani

Residents in Komani are increasingly voicing frustration over the growing number of potholes across the town, with some streets now so badly damaged that driving has become difficult and, in some cases, hazardous.

Motorists say navigating certain roads has turned into an obstacle course, with drivers often forced to weave across lanes in an attempt to avoid deep potholes. In some areas, entire stretches of road have deteriorated, leaving little space for vehicles to pass without hitting damaged sections.

Several residents told Komani News that the problem has worsened in recent months, with potholes appearing across many neighbourhoods and main routes.

Many drivers say they now have to slow down significantly or change their usual routes to avoid damaging their vehicles.

Municipality explains cause of potholes

Komani News contacted the Enoch Mgijima Local Municipality for comment on the growing concerns.

Municipal spokesperson Lonwabo Kowa said the widespread pothole problem is largely the result of persistent rainfall and ageing road infrastructure.

“The potholes are caused by persistent rains as well as our roads that are beyond their maintenance life,” Kowa said.

According to the municipality, many of the town’s roads have reached the end of their maintenance lifespan, making them more vulnerable to damage during heavy rainfall.

Budget and repair plans

Kowa said the municipality has allocated budget towards road upgrades in several areas in an effort to reduce the occurrence of potholes.

Streets identified for upgrades include Ezibeleni streets, Pelem Road, Dahlia Street, Fletcher Street, Bells Road, Victoria Road and Griffiths Road.

In addition to these planned upgrades, the municipality has also set aside internal funding specifically for pothole maintenance and repairs.

Pothole repair programme underway

The municipality confirmed that a pothole repair programme is currently underway in Komani.

“Yes, there is a pothole programme in town undertaken by the municipal team,” Kowa said.

He added that road maintenance and pothole repairs form part of an ongoing maintenance programme, rather than a once-off intervention.

“The issue is an ongoing exercise as it is a maintenance programme.”

Message to residents

Despite the frustration felt by many residents, the municipality said it is working to reduce the number of potholes across the Enoch Mgijima Local Municipality area.

“The municipality is trying all means to reduce potholes in the EMLM area and is also sourcing funding from other sector departments for the upgrading of roads,” Kowa said.

Residents, however, say they hope to see faster improvements, as potholes continue to affect daily travel across Komani.