Just years after a multi-million-rand revamp of the K73 Allandale Road by the Gauteng provincial government, parts of this key Midrand route are starting to crumble.
The Gauteng provincial government’s much-publicised upgrade of the K73 Allandale Road, once hailed as a major step toward easing congestion in Midrand, is now drawing criticism as signs of neglect begin to surface just a few years after completion.
Premier Panyaza Lesufi officially reopened the key arterial route on November 22, 2023, following a 22-month, multi-million-rand construction project.
The road, which links the N1 to the East Rand and cuts through Midrand, was upgraded into a dual carriageway between Montrose and Allandale roads.
The project also included improvements to Woodmead Drive, as well as the construction of a new bridge.
At the time, the development was expected to significantly improve traffic flow, reduce congestion, and enhance mobility for thousands of daily commuters travelling through the busy corridor.
During the reopening, Lesufi stressed that Gauteng, as South Africa’s economic hub, could not afford to be associated with potholes and deteriorating infrastructure.
He warned that municipalities failing to maintain roads could see their responsibilities taken over by the provincial government. However, concerns are now mounting that the promises made during the launch have not been sustained.
Ward 132 councillor Annette Deppe said sections of Allandale Road, particularly near the intersection leading to Kyalami Preparatory School from Mushroom Farm Centre, are already showing signs of deterioration, including the emergence of potholes.
Deppe confirmed that she has contacted provincial authorities to prioritise urgent repairs, but described the situation as ongoing neglect of a critical transport route. “Since the intersection was upgraded, approximately two to three years ago, there has been a complete lack of maintenance.
The pavement around the school traffic circle was never completed, leaving it in an unacceptable and unsafe condition.”
She added that non-functional streetlights and traffic signals are increasing risks for motorists, pedestrians, and schoolchildren who rely on the route daily.
“Furthermore, the general state of Allandale Road reflects years of neglect. Pavements and pedestrian walkways are overgrown with weeds and grass exceeding 1m in height, effectively turning public infrastructure into a hazard. It is evident that no consistent cleaning, cutting, or maintenance has taken place over an extended period.”
She has called for urgent intervention, including the restoration of lighting and traffic systems, immediate pothole repairs, and the implementation of a sustainable maintenance plan.
The Gauteng department of transport was contacted on May 5 for comment regarding repair timelines and ongoing maintenance.
At the time of publication, no response had been received. The department’s comment will be published once available.
