Swallowed road raises concerns about safety of the R563 in Oaktree

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20-05-2025
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Krugersdorp News
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Sinkhole strikes provincial road, residents left worried about safety.

A sinkhole appeared on the R563 in Oaktree on May 8, leaving the road’s structural integrity jeopardised. Fortunately, rapid implementation of precautionary safety measures to warn drivers of the danger were put in place.

Ward councillor Gwen Britz confirmed that the R563 is a provincial road. This places the responsibility for repair and maintenance squarely with the provincial government, not the municipality. However, she escalated the matter to the Members of the Provincial Legislature for urgent attention, support, and co-ordination at the appropriate level.

The nearby community came together to discuss a variety of possible interventions, and the council was inspired by the dedication of nearby companies who have volunteered to help with efforts to maintain and improve Ward 39’s infrastructure.

Britz mentioned what could have been the cause of the sinkhole.

“The area is dolomitic [dolomitic caste system] and likely made worse because of the excessive rains and heavy trucks. However, a final determination can only be made once a geo-technical report is conducted,” said Britz.

Public safety remains my highest priority. I will continue to monitor the situation closely and keep residents updated as progress is made”.

The Krugersdorp News approached the Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport for comment on this matter, but they did not provide feedback on the cause of the sinkhole, the estimated cost of fixing the road and the steps the government will take to prevent similar sinkholes from occurring on provincial roads. Once their feedback is received, a follow up will be published on this developing story.