Question NW3713 to the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation
22 November 2023 - NW3713
Yabo, Mr BS to ask the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation
What is the adoption rate of his department’s digital application that monitors and reports potholes on roads, which is also part of the research and development and innovation interventions of his department to accelerate road maintenance projects of the Government?
Reply:
The PotholeFix application (app) was developed as part of a contractual agreement between the CSIR and the Gauteng Provincial Government. This initiative is a component of a broader strategy to restore road network asset management system in the province, with a focus on optimising maintenance scheduling. Specifically, the app aims to streamline the reporting of incidents and their subsequent status updates. Collaboration between the provincial government and municipalities is crucial for addressing reported potholes promptly.
What makes the app unique is its alignment with the national road maintenance guidelines, providing first respondents with clear insights into the nature and severity of reported pothole. The app’s location-tracking feature ensures that reports are directed to the appropriate road authority. While the potential for nationwide implementation in partnership with other provinces exists, the app is currently operational exclusively in Gauteng. Its reception has been positive, with varying levels of adoption across municipalities. To date, the app has garnered over 12 000 downloads on Android and iOS platforms, contributing to the reporting of more than 9 000 potholes through this platform.