Vandalism on Roads Causes Significant Setbacks for Johannesburg Road Agency

Traffic vandalism affects the Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) and causes significant setbacks for the agency and the people of Fourways. The problem of theft and vandalism of traffic signal poles and copper cables has reached alarming levels, resulting in extended periods of malfunctioning traffic signals. This situation inconveniences road users and poses a grave threat to public safety.

According to the JRA, the high demand for scrap metal drives the theft and vandalism of traffic signal infrastructure. Criminals specifically target traffic signals due to the presence of valuable copper cables, which they sell in the scrap metal market. The severity of the problem has forced the JRA to allocate substantial funds to rebuild intersections and replace stolen traffic signal poles.

Bertha Scheepers, the JRA spokesperson, highlighted the additional impact of load-shedding on the situation. To mitigate the effects, the JRA is now collaborating with the public and private sectors to provide backup power from properties to keep the traffic signals operational. However, the issue of vandalism and theft of copper cables and signal poles persists, requiring significant financial resources to restore intersections.

The consequences of these issues are severe. Dysfunctional traffic signals contribute to traffic congestion, accidents, and increased travel time. These disruptions frustrate road users and can adversely affect the economy. Moreover, emergency services, including ambulances and fire trucks, face difficulties navigating through congested intersections swiftly and efficiently.

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Scheepers expressed the gravity of the situation, stating that the JRA is engaged in a tremendous battle to protect the city’s road traffic signals from rampant theft and vandalism. Criminal syndicates spread their illegal activities throughout the city, stripping traffic signals of valuable components that they resell for a fraction of their replacement cost. Signal poles, copper cables, electrical components, and equipment like signal heads, UPS, and controllers are all targeted for illicit gains.

Such acts disrupt the functioning of essential traffic services and jeopardise public safety. The infrastructure intended to prevent accidents and safeguard the community and road users is sold to illegal scrap metal dealers for minimal profit. The JRA urges residents to treat intersections as stop-way streets and adhere to standard traffic rules during these challenging times.

Scheepers emphasised that the JRA maintains daily communication with OUTsurance to identify main arterial routes affected by load-shedding or faulty signals. By deploying points people, they aim to alleviate traffic congestion and ensure smoother traffic flow in those areas.

All stakeholders must remain vigilant, report any suspicious activities, and work together to combat traffic vandalism, safeguard public safety, and maintain the efficient functioning of Johannesburg’s road network.

Source: Traffic vandalism causes major setbacks for Johannesburg Road Agency

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Picture: Facebook / Future City Fourways

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