Staff Reporter
Joburg Roads Agency CEO Zweli Nyathi has announced that regional teams have been deployed to carry out maintenance on the M1 South and M1 North motorways as part of Operation Restore programme.
He said that Johannesburg is preparing for a surge in traffic volumes, particularly along the M1 and M2 Motorways, which are critical transport corridors connecting Gauteng and surrounding areas.
The event was attended by the City of Johannesburg’s MMC for Transport, Kenny Kunene; Regional Director for Region E, Thaba Makgafela; DA Ward 74 Councillor Belinda Kayser-Echeozonjoku and members of the JRA Board and staff, including residents of Athol Oaklands.
“We are aware that the festive season is also characterised by inclement weather. As such, we have dedicated an increased number of teams and resources for the next week for extensive maintenance along the M1 South and North (between Shakespeare Avenue and Corlett Drive, through the Operation Restore programme,” said Nyathi.
“The scope of work will include skofelling, painting guardrails, KI cleaning, litter picking, clearing of silts, weed control and cleaning of open channels across Wards 54, 58, 60, 67, 73 and 74. The installation of stubs will continue along sections of the M2 Motorway.”
The initiative, designed to equip regional teams with additional resources, focuses on fast-tracking road repairs, enhancing safety, and ensuring efficient service delivery.
Key achievements of Operation Restore include the repair of over 300 potholes in areas such as Cosmo City, North Riding, Constantia Kloof, Bramfischerville, and Matholesville.
The JRA is collaborating with other City entities, including Pikitup and Joburg City Parks, to ensure a comprehensive approach to service delivery.
Nyathi urged residents to report road defects via official platforms and discouraged unauthorized road repairs.
He also emphasized the importance of safety during ongoing roadworks.
“Road users can expect increased JRA visibility on the M1 and M2 Motorways. Work sites will be cordoned off to traffic, however it is the responsibility of motorists to ensure they drive safely and reduce their travelling speed when approaching these sites,” said Nyathi.
“We recently undertook a road safety and educational campaign along the M2 East and Crown Interchange in a bid to address reckless driving and to influence good driver-behaviour. We therefore urge motorists to exercise caution and patience, and to always adhere to the rules of the road.”
Joburg MMC for Transport Kenny Kunene. PHOTO: Eddie Mtsweni
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