Pretoria: Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport Kedibone Diale-Tlabela emphasizes the government’s commitment to ensuring optimal functionality of traffic signals and road infrastructure to enhance road safety across the province. ‘We are aware of the inconvenience caused by non-functional traffic lights and the impact this has on traffic flow and safety. Our teams are working tirelessly to restore vandalised intersections and strengthen maintenance across the province,’ the MEC stated.
According to South African Government News Agency, the upcoming procurement of maintenance service providers is expected to significantly enhance the government’s ability to swiftly address faults and reduce prolonged outages. The Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport continues to intensify efforts to improve traffic management and road infrastructure, with notable progress reported on the M43 (Atlas Road) traffic lights in Ekurhuleni and the Rooihuiskraal/N14 off-ramp project in Centurion.
Several intersections along the M43 are fully operational; however, inspections have identified vandalism at certain intersections, rendering them non-operational. Damaged components include power supply units, poles, and copper cables. The department is finalising procurement for the restoration of these intersections, with costs to be confirmed upon completion of this process.
The department noted that certain intersections fall under the jurisdiction of the City of Ekurhuleni, and engagements will be undertaken with the City to ensure coordinated repair efforts. Diale-Tlabela expressed concern about recurring vandalism and theft of road infrastructure, which undermines service delivery and public safety. ‘Vandalism and cable theft remain some of our biggest challenges, costing the province millions and setting back progress. We urge communities to work with law enforcement and report acts of vandalism,’ she said.
The department confirmed that the Rooihuiskraal/N14 off-ramp project will proceed as a standalone project, with procurement for a service provider planned for Quarter 3 of the 2025/2026 Financial Year. ‘The Rooihuiskraal/N14 off-ramp project is an important investment in improving traffic flow and accessibility in Centurion. It forms part of our broader programme to expand and modernise Gauteng’s road network,’ the MEC added.
The department reiterated its commitment to delivering safe, efficient, and reliable road infrastructure across the province. ‘Despite the challenges posed by vandalism and budgetary constraints, efforts continue to restore and maintain critical infrastructure, improve mobility, and advance the province’s transport priorities,’ Diale-Tlabela affirmed.