Emfuleni Faces R500-million road repair crisis amid funding shortfall

EMFULENI - Emfuleni municipality is grappling with a severe road infrastructure crisis, requiring R500-million to repair roads damaged by heavy rains. Communications manager Makhosonke Sangweni says over 70% of Emfuleni’s 14,700km road network needs full maintenance. However, the municipality lacks the funds due to widespread nonpayment for services. Sharpeville, Vanderbijlpark, Vereeniging, Sebokeng, Evaton, and Three Rivers are among the worst affected areas, with potholes multiplying as rains persist. Sangweni acknowledges the financial constraints but assures that efforts continue to restore road infrastructure. Ekurhuleni faces similar challenges, also needing R500-million for road repairs. Spokesperson Zweli Dlamini stresses that infrastructure maintenance depends on residents paying for services.

Residents say costly repairs to vehicles add to financial strain, with some experiencing multiple tyre damages in a month.