By: Matshidiso Selebeleng

AfriForum has challenged the Matlosana Local Municipality to prioritise life-threatening road conditions at a major Klerksdorp intersection.

The civil rights group formally notified the Acting Municipal Manager regarding the intersection of Jan van Riebeeck Road (R30), Leemhuis Street, and Ian Street.

Residents frequently pass the site and report unsafe conditions caused by non-functional traffic lights and missing road signs.

AfriForum District Coordinator for the Mooi River, Alta Pretorius, described the current state of the R30 as an unacceptable risk to road users.

“This situation exposes road users to unacceptable risks on a daily basis. The R30 is an important route with heavy traffic; without proper traffic control, collisions and injuries are inevitable.”

The organisation stated that the municipality’s failure to maintain the site is a sign of gross negligence, while further arguing that authorities have a legal obligation to manage traffic control measures in terms of the National Road Traffic Act.

While the formal complaint focused on one intersection, many other parts of the town are reportedly riddled with deteriorating markings.

Pretorius pointed to a systemic failure in infrastructure maintenance that forces residents to navigate dangerous streets alone.

“It is clear that there is a systemic failure in the maintenance of infrastructure. Residents are being left to their own devices while their safety is compromised.”

AfriForum has urged the municipality to urgently repair the traffic lights and install correct signage to alert motorists of upcoming hazards. The organisation further warned that the local government could be held liable for any future damage, injuries, or loss of life.