Frustrated residents of the uMngeni Local Municipality marched to the regional Department of Transport offices on Tuesday, demanding urgent repairs to the area’s deteriorating roads.
The protesters, representing both urban and rural communities, handed over a memorandum to department officials, highlighting the severe impact of poor road conditions on daily life, businesses, and tourism. Residents claim repeated written appeals to the department have gone unanswered, leaving roads riddled with potholes and unsafe for travel.
Businesses and Tourism Suffer
Local businesses say the crumbling infrastructure is driving away tourists, a vital source of income for the region. One business owner reported having to repair his car’s suspension every three months due to road damage, a costly burden.
“We rely heavily on tourism, but visitors are leaving bad reviews, warning others about the terrible roads,” said Kate, a resident from Merrivale Heights. “Accommodations and businesses are suffering because people don’t want to return.”
Residents Fear for Safety
Kate Janse van Rensburg, who has lived in the area for 14 years, explained that the poorly maintained roads force traffic onto alternative routes not built for heavy use. After rainfall, roads degrade further, leading to dangerous driving conditions, near-collisions, and frustration among locals.
“We’ve seen temporary patchwork repairs, but what we need are permanent solutions,” she said.
Municipality Voices Support
The uMngeni Deputy Mayor confirmed that the municipality has repeatedly appealed to the Department of Transport for road repairs, emphasizing the strain on communities and the local economy.
Protesters vowed to escalate their campaign if no action is taken. The Department of Transport has yet to issue a formal response.
