From Bumpy to Better: Johannesburg’s R149.9 Million Plan to Fix Its Pothole Problem

New budget, new roads – and hopefully, fewer tyre blowouts.

If you’re one of the countless Joburgers dodging potholes on your daily commute, there’s finally some good news. The City of Johannesburg has announced a R149.9 million investment to tackle the metro’s worsening road network – one pothole-riddled stretch at a time.

Not Just Patchwork – Full Resurfacing Ahead

This isn’t your usual quick patch-up job. According to the Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA), the city is launching a comprehensive resurfacing programme targeting 85 km of critical roads in the 2025/26 financial year. That’s a significant increase from last year’s R105 million allocation – a clear sign, says JRA CEO Zweli Nyathi, that the city is serious about long-term solutions.

“We understand the immense frustration caused by the current state of the city’s roads,” Nyathi said. “This new investment reflects our commitment to roads that have deteriorated beyond repair.”

Where It’s Happening First

The city’s busiest and most neglected roads are top of the list, including:

• Kliptown

• Nasrec

• Eldorado Park

• Ivory Park

• Sandton

• Soweto Highway

• M1 North and South

These roads were flagged in a Visual Conditions Assessment (VCA) as being in “very poor” condition. The goal? Not just smoother rides, but improved drainage, longer-lasting surfaces, and fewer potholes in the future.

Image 1: SABC News

Local Materials, Local Jobs

In a win for local industry, the asphalt will be supplied by the JRA’s Booysens Asphalt Plant, ensuring better quality control and quicker turnaround times. And it’s not only major roads getting attention – the JRA continues daily pothole patching, crack sealing, and deep repairs across Joburg suburbs.

Fixing What Was Dug Up

One major frustration for residents has been roads and pavements left in disrepair after water pipe maintenance. This is now being addressed through a Service Level Agreement between the JRA and Johannesburg Water. City officials report a 75% reduction in the reinstatement backlog of 10,000 cases – part of a wider strategy to restore, not just cover up.

Planning for Tomorrow’s Traffic Today

Transport MMC Kenny Kunene points out that many of Joburg’s roads weren’t built for the traffic volumes we see today.

“Resurfacing main arterial roads is critical to ensuring safe and efficient mobility.”

The long-term plan includes structural upgrades and more traffic-calming measures. Last year’s resurfacing work reached areas like Kyalami Estates, Florida Park, Suideroord, and Birdhaven.

What Residents Are Saying

The announcement sparked cautious optimism on social media. One X user commented:

“I won’t believe it until my suspension survives a week in Nasrec.”

Another added:

“Can the M1 finally stop feeling like a rollercoaster, please?”

While scepticism remains, many Joburgers are watching closely – hoping this time the promises stick as well as the new asphalt.

The Road Ahead

If executed well, this R149.9 million resurfacing project could mark a turning point in Johannesburg’s infrastructure story. For now, it’s a pothole of progress – and one the city desperately needs to climb out of.

Also read: Driving Licence Lifespan in SA Set to Grow: Department Moves on 8-Year Plan

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Source: The Citizen

Featured Image: iStock