Katutura residents fume over pothole-riddled roads

Katutura residents say the worsening state of their pothole-riddled roads poses safety risks and reflects neglect by the authorities, who promise ongoing repairs.

The Katutura Residents Committee, led by chairperson Benestus Kandundu, has raised concerns over what it describes as neglect by the authorities.

He says Katutura’s roads are riddled with potholes, making driving hazardous.

“Drivers cannot even drive properly, because they are just in potholes everywhere. If you take Single Quarters from a local shop, there is a street there. That road is very bad.

“And if you drive through the minor streets at Katutura, it’s clear that road quality here is not a priority,” he says.

Kandundu says compared to other suburbs, Katutura’s roads are in far worse condition.

He questions the quality of materials used in road construction, saying the difference in maintenance between Katutura and wealthier areas is evident.

“The situation is very bad because it can cause accidents.

If you drive through locations like Soweto, Wanaheda, Goreangab, Ombili, Eveline Street, and others, you will see that most streets have potholes,” he says.

Kandundu calls on the City of Windhoek to compare Katutura’s road conditions with those in other parts of Windhoek, particularly major roads such as Independence Avenue, which he claims receive better maintenance.

“We hope the municipality will address this issue.

We cannot continue driving on roads that damage our cars and put lives at risk,” he says.

City of Windhoek spokesperson Harold Akwenye says the city is aware of the situation and is making efforts to improve damaged roads.

“Our teams are monitoring the roads and carrying out temporary repairs to improve drivability,” he says.

Akwenye urges motorists to reduce speed and exercise caution.

Landless People’s Movement leader Bernadus Swartbooi raised concerns about damaged roads in the parliament yesterday.

Addressing minister of works and transport Veikko Nekundi, Swartbooi questioned the government’s plans to improve road infrastructure.

“We have engaged local authorities to explore ways of assisting them in addressing this issue.

Many local authorities are likely willing to take urgent action to fix potholes, as they pose a growing risk of vehicle damage and accidents,” he said.