The Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) has welcomed growing private-sector support to repair and protect Johannesburg’s road network, while cautioning residents and businesses against carrying out unauthorised pothole repairs. ​Partnerships such as the Traffic Signal Backup Power programme — supported by more than 52 corporate partners — and collaborations like the Discovery Avis Pothole Patrol are helping to bolster the City’s efforts, particularly after heavy summer rains worsened road damage across several regions.

However, the agency stressed that filling potholes without written approval and a valid wayleave constitutes a breach of the City’s Code of Practice and relevant by-laws. Offenders risk fines, confiscation of equipment and possible arrest by the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD).

JRA CEO Zweli Nyathi said while the agency appreciates active citizenship, road repairs require technical expertise and strict compliance with safety standards.

“Using incorrect materials such as sand or bricks can create loose debris, crack windscreens and endanger motorists and cyclists. It also exposes the JRA to public liability claims for work not undertaken by our teams,” he said.

Nyathi warned that substandard repairs allow water to seep into the road base, leading to cracking and, in severe cases, total structural failure — significantly increasing long-term repair costs. Unauthorised work also poses risks to underground infrastructure, including gas lines, fibre-optic cables, water pipes and electricity networks. Proper signage and barricading are legally required to safeguard both road users and workers.

The JRA urged residents and companies wishing to assist to follow due process by applying for a wayleave through its official website or by partnering directly with the agency.

“We remain committed to safe, liveable roads. The most effective way to help is to report defects through our formal channels so our professional teams can respond decisively,” Nyathi said.