Potholes have presented challenges to motorists in many parts of the country, and a shortage of bitumen in Durban has caused delays in getting them repaired. File Picture: Nqobile Mbonambi / Independent Newspapers
eThekwini Municipality said it had recently appointed three additional asphalt service providers to address the current pothole crisis.
Last month, the Daily News reported that the City was facing asphalt supply challenges due to the shortage of bitumen because oil refineries could not supply enough bitumen.
This week the City said the Roads and Stormwater Maintenance (RSWM) Department had taken significant steps to address the ongoing pothole challenge.
“To expedite repairs and minimise disruptions, the RSWM Department has recently appointed three additional asphalt service providers.”
The City said this strategic move would enable their teams to tackle the backlog of pothole repairs more efficiently.
“Over the past weekend, crews worked round the clock to prioritise pothole repairs along major routes.To further accelerate the process, additional overtime has been approved for the coming weeks to ensure more potholes are repaired.”
The Municipality said their focus was on addressing the most severe potholes and improving road conditions for motorists.
They urged residents to be mindful that asphalt repairs can be affected by adverse weather conditions, such as rainfall.
“The Municipality appreciates the patience and understanding from the public as it works to resolve this issue. The City assures residents that it remains committed to improving road infrastructure and creating a safer and smoother driving experience for all.”
Last month Minister of Transport, Barbara Creecy said that the South African National Roads Agency Limited (Sanral) has paid more than R15 million to motorists after their vehicles were damaged by the pothole-riddled national roads over the past two years.
The City said it dealt with an average of 2,103 road defects monthly, this is only potholes and road repairs/patches.
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