The return of heavy rains in Juba has once again exposed the poor condition of roads in several residential areas, with motorists and other road users facing serious difficulties along the Gudele 1 road.
Potholes, standing water, and damaged sections of the road are making movement difficult, particularly for motorists trying to report to work and residents travelling to markets, schools, health facilities, and other essential services.
This situation raises a simple but important question. Why should heavy rain repeatedly bring movement to a standstill on a road that serves thousands of residents?
The problem is not simply the rain. Rain is a natural occurrence. The greater concern is the lack of proper drainage and adequate road maintenance to ensure that water does not remain on the road and continue damaging its surface.
When rainwater has nowhere to go, it collects on roads, weakens the surface, and expands existing potholes. Over time, what may begin as a small drainage problem becomes a major transportation challenge.
The authorities responsible for roads and public infrastructure must therefore look beyond temporary solutions. Patching potholes without addressing drainage will not provide a lasting answer. Water needs to be properly channelled away from the road, while damaged sections should be rehabilitated to withstand the rainy season.
The newly appointed caretaker authorities in Central Equatoria State have an opportunity to respond to this long-standing concern. Their responsibilities should include ensuring that essential infrastructure remains functional and that residents can move safely regardless of the weather.
Gudele 1 is not an isolated road used by a handful of people. It is part of a wider network connecting communities and enabling residents to reach workplaces, businesses, and public services. When the road becomes impassable, the consequences are felt by families, workers, traders, students, and motorists.
The government cannot control when or how much it rains, but it can improve drainage, maintain roads, and plan infrastructure according to the realities of the rainy season.
The caretaker administration should therefore treat the condition of Gudele 1 Road as an urgent public concern. Engineers and relevant authorities should inspect the damaged sections, identify appropriate drainage channels, and undertake repairs before the situation deteriorates further.
Citizens deserve roads that remain usable during the rainy season. Fixing Gudele 1 should not wait for another rainy season.
God protect South Sudan.
Be the spectator!