Illegal Mining Threatens Roodepoort Infrastructure as Road Collapse Forces Johannesburg Roads Agency to Act Swiftly
JRA Shuts Down Key Roads in Roodepoort After Dangerous Collapse
The Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) has promptly closed Mijn and Van Wyk Streets in Roodepoort, due to a road collapse linked to illegal mining. Motorists are being advised to avoid the area and use alternative routes. The road closures come amid heightened concerns over the damage caused by illegal mining in the city’s infrastructure network.
Earlier this year, former Johannesburg Mayor Kabelo Gwamanda highlighted the pressing risks posed by illegal mining, warning that tunnelling activities under roads, bridge embankments, and near water and sewage networks pose immediate safety threats. These words materialized on Wednesday afternoon when JRA announced the collapse of Mijn Street, which also affects Ethel Street near its intersection with Van Wyk Street.
Alternative Routes and Safety Recommendations
To avoid disruption and ensure safety, JRA advises drivers to take Currie Street, Hebel/Herbert Street, Fearick Street, or Manuel Street as detours. The agency also warned motorists not to remove or tamper with barricades, as doing so is illegal under Section 57 (12) of the National Road Traffic Act and poses additional safety risks.
“Investigations are ongoing, and a detailed update will be communicated in due course,” JRA assured, thanking the public for their patience and cooperation in this pressing matter.
Illegal Mining Crackdown in Gauteng: Operation Vala Umgodi
This incident adds urgency to Gauteng’s ongoing Operation Vala Umgodi, which targets illegal mining across the province. On Tuesday, the operation led to the arrest of an illegal immigrant found with a firearm and ammunition in Benoni’s Harry Gwala informal settlement. Officers also encountered four armed suspects at an illegal mining site. While three managed to escape, police seized a rifle and 24 rounds of ammunition.
Operation Vala Umgodi will continue its efforts to curtail illegal mining in Gauteng, which remains a significant threat to public safety and urban infrastructure.
