Centurion Sinkholes and Potholes Worsen Due to Record Rainfall and Dolomitic Soil Conditions
Centurion Sinkholes: Centurion, one of Tshwane’s most rapidly developing areas, is battling a severe infrastructure crisis as recurring sinkholes and potholes plague its roads. The problem is rooted in the area’s dolomitic soil and exacerbated by record rainfall, which has led to road collapses and widespread damage.
Dolomitic Soil and Record Rainfall Wreak Havoc
The City of Tshwane faces a massive challenge in addressing the damage caused by persistent sinkholes, particularly in Centurion. The problem stems from the dolomitic nature of the soil, which is highly prone to collapse when water seeps through. According to DA Ward 65 councillor Gert Visser, Centurion experiences new sinkholes almost every month due to its geological makeup.
Since January, the Centurion region, including Irene, has recorded the highest rainfall in 22 years, resulting in numerous potholes and significant damage to key roads. Roads in areas like Rooihuiskraal, Louwlardia, Highveld, and Irene have been affected.
Budget Shortfalls Leave Roads Unrepaired
Repair efforts have been hindered by a critical shortage of hot asphalt and bitumen, caused by operational and procurement issues. As a result, road repairs that could have been completed swiftly have been significantly delayed.
The budget constraints are stark: rehabilitating all sinkholes within Tshwane, numbering between 60 and 70, would require at least R720 million. In contrast, the current available budget is only R14 million. This financial gap leaves prominent sinkholes in Alexandria Road, Irene, and John Vorster Avenue, Highveld, untouched.
Public-Private Partnerships: A Viable Solution?
To address the shortfall, Visser suggests that public-private partnerships (PPPs) could provide an interim solution while national legislation and policies are reconsidered. This strategy could expedite repairs, especially in areas crucial for daily commutes and economic activities.
Hammanskraal Faces Similar Road Infrastructure Issues
While Centurion struggles with sinkholes, the Hammanskraal region is also in dire need of road repairs. Johan Loots, chair of the Apies Rivier Noord Gemeenskap Forum, has appealed to the City of Tshwane to address the deteriorating conditions of roads like Apies River Road, Coin Road, Tambotie Road, and Juliet Street. Repairing these roads would enhance service delivery and community mobility.
A Coordinated Response Needed
As Centurion and Hammanskraal struggle with deteriorating infrastructure, the City of Tshwane must urgently find sustainable solutions. PPPs, budget reallocations, and long-term legislative changes could offer a path forward. Meanwhile, residents continue to navigate crumbling roads, waiting for decisive action.
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