Potch WhatsApp Weekly Service Delivery & Safety Update
- Karen Scheepers
- 12 hours ago
- 3 min read
Covering Key Alerts and Resident Concerns
Potchefstroom residents were once again quick to raise concerns and share alerts on their local WhatsApp groups this past week. From malfunctioning traffic lights and refuse collection delays to fire hazards and electricity billing confusion, the community's digital conversations offered a real-time reflection of daily service challenges and safety risks. This update highlights the most significant issues that affected neighbourhoods between 10 and 16 October 2025.
🛑 Traffic Alert: Malfunctioning Robot at Key Intersection
Multiple reports were received this week about the broken three-way traffic light at the intersection of Chief Albert Luthuli Drive and Govan Mbeki Avenue. According to councillors and residents, the lights are simultaneously showing red and green, or switching to green and immediately back to red. The situation remains dangerous, especially during peak traffic periods and Aardklop-related congestion, and has been reported to the relevant authorities. Motorists are urged to proceed with extreme caution.
🔥 Wildfire Hazards Impact Visibility
On 15 October, smoke from a wildfire near Technical High School significantly reduced visibility along MC Roode Road. Councillors urged residents to reduce speed and switch on headlights when driving in the area. This incident highlights the seasonal fire risks and reinforces the need for local vigilance.
💡 Power Outages and Streetlight Reporting
Ward representatives issued requests for help identifying non-functional streetlights outside local businesses. Due to personal obligations, some councillors were unable to conduct after-dark inspections, and residents were asked to submit photos and exact locations for follow-up action. Meanwhile, scattered power outages across areas like Bloem Street, Beyers Naude, and Kamp Straat were reported, with cable theft again contributing to disruptions.
🚛 Refuse Removal Disruptions Continue
Service interruptions for refuse collection remained a recurring theme. On 15 October, residents were informed of truck breakdowns and a severe backlog, prompting uncertainty about collection routes. Despite initial delays, updates on 16 October confirmed that all areas without municipal wheelie bins were being serviced on the usual Thursday route. Councillors shared that JB Marks’ mechanical teams were working with urgency, and notices about catch-up plans would follow.
🚰 Ongoing Water Issues and Pressure Complaints
A major water leak was identified near the railway behind Soetdoring Street, pumping clean water at high pressure. Access to the site was complicated by terrain, but efforts were made by JB Marks and Parks departments to clear the way for infrastructure repairs. Multiple residents also reported persistently low water pressure near the hospital and train tracks, prompting continued investigations.
🗑 Dangerous Waste Disposal Practices Highlighted
Community conversations also surfaced around the improper disposal of TVs and fluorescent tubes. One resident reported placing an old TV outside for removal, only to learn that it contains materials reportedly used in illegal drug manufacturing. The community was advised to rather drop such items at approved recyclers, such as Mico Scrap Metals or verified facilities like Deswalner.
📉 Prepaid Electricity Pricing Concerns for Businesses
Several business owners raised concerns over unexpectedly low prepaid electricity units received after larger top-up payments. Clarification followed that business electricity tariffs are higher than residential ones and follow a monthly sliding scale, meaning bigger purchases within the same month may yield proportionally fewer units.
🛣 Road Accidents and Delays
A motor vehicle accident (MVA) was reported on Govan Mbeki Road near the Viljoenskroon turnoff on 14 October, obstructing one lane. Motorists were advised to avoid the area if possible while emergency services responded to the scene.
Thank you to all residents who continue to engage proactively through group chats and councillor feedback loops. Your vigilance and updates are key to keeping Potchefstroom informed and safe.
Final Chat
Ongoing technical faults, public safety concerns, and waste collection disruptions show just how dependent residents are on active communication platforms and municipal responsiveness. The updates shared this past week serve as a reminder of the importance of consistent service delivery, community accountability, and quick reporting when issues arise.
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