By Nkhensani Chauke
The Portfolio Committee on Transport and Logistics in the Gauteng Provincial Legislature (GPL) has endorsed the Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) for the installation and maintenance of traffic lights in Johannesburg.
This decision follows a recent briefing where the committee was informed about the increasing incidents of road infrastructure violations and the rise in crimes targeting traffic lights in Gauteng.
These incidents are primarily driven by the theft of copper cables and scrap.
According to the GDRT, the department has suffered significant losses estimated at R30 million between 2021 and 2023 due to the replacement of stolen and vandalised traffic signal infrastructure across the province.
“The committee was informed that the department manages 400 traffic signals located at intersections across five municipalities in Gauteng, with Johannesburg having 251 signals, Tshwane 52, and Ekurhuleni 65,” said Scheemann, a committee member.
He said that Johannesburg experiences the highest incidents of theft and vandalism.
“The committee agrees with MEC Hon. Kedibone Diale-Tlabela that appointing JRA is crucial to restoring traffic light services, enhancing safety, and improving mobility in and around the city,” he added.
Scheemann further noted that the committee has taken proactive steps to address concerns by focusing on a Focus Intervention Study (FIS) as part of the 2024/2025 budget.
This study aims to address inadequate maintenance and protection of road infrastructure in the province.
“The study revealed the urgent need for a comprehensive maintenance plan for traffic signals and emphasized the importance of collaboration among law enforcement agencies to safeguard road infrastructure,” he said.
The committee urged Gauteng residents to protect traffic signals and public property, including the need to report vandalism and theft to law enforcement authorities.
“The vandalism and theft of traffic signals have imposed significant costs on the provincial government and municipalities, contributing to road accidents and, tragically, loss of life,” Scheemann said.
MEC Kedibone Diale-Tlabela previously urged motorists to exercise vigilance, especially at night, following incidents of streetlight vandalism along major highways in Gauteng over the December holidays.
She condemned these criminal acts and called for increased law enforcement patrols.
“Scheemann pledged to conduct oversight visits to assess the work done by JRA in maintaining traffic signals across the province,” she said.
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