Traffic lights on Empire Road are a shame

24 February 2009 - 02:00
By unknown

I don't know who is responsible for the traffic lights on Empire Road just outside KPMG House, but I would like to see them fixed urgently.

As a Joburg resident I welcome the Bus Rapid Transport (BRT) system as I believe it is a step in the right direction. It will reduce traffic congestion and pollution.

I am aware that in order for us to have the BRT, we will have no choice but to endure traffic congestion and inconvenience. This does not mean that we should have to deal with incompetence.

If the traffic lights in question are not working due to damage caused during construction of the BRT system, then they must be fixed.

It beats me how metro police are there in the morning to assist with traffic but then leave without fixing the traffic lights. Do they expect traffic to magically flow in the afternoons? Do metro police, City Power and the JRA not work together to resolve traffic problems?

Metro police or pointsmen need to be permanently deployed on Empire Road to assist with the traffic until construction of the BRT system is completed.

I am fully aware that development and construction need to happen, however, this needs to happen with the least possible inconvenience to road users. The city needs to take a proactive approach.

I have highlighted the problem and offered a solution. Now please act!

Zain Dhoodat, Yeoville