More than three years after a deadly underground gas explosion tore through Johannesburg’s CBD, repairs to Lilian Ngoyi Street have reached another milestone, with the second phase of the R192 million project declared practically complete. However, some finishing work, including the installation of street furniture, is still outstanding.

The Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) confirmed that work on the section between Ntemi Piliso Street and End Street had reached practical completion. Johannesburg Mayor Dada Morero said the remaining work was expected to be completed within the next two weeks.

The announcement follows repeated delays to the rehabilitation project, with its completion deadline previously shifted from August to October 2026.

In August 2024, the JRA terminated its agreement with the original contractor before appointing a replacement, adding to delays.

Repairs follow deadly 2023 gas explosion

The rehabilitation work was launched after an underground gas explosion on July 19, 2023, on the street formerly known as Bree Street. The blast killed one person, injured several others and caused extensive damage to vehicles and underground infrastructure.

The explosion also forced the closure of a major route through the CBD, disrupting businesses, motorists and commuters.

The first phase, covering the section between Harrison and Kruis streets, was completed in August 2025 and opened in September that year. The first phase of the Lilian Ngoyi Street project followed more than two years of delays and disruption.

That phase included rebuilding the underground tunnel, replacing damaged water, sewer and stormwater infrastructure, and installing gas detection and ventilation systems to monitor gas levels and reduce the risk of another explosion.

Road layout changed to improve pedestrian access

The second phase involved changes to the road layout, reducing the number of traffic lanes from five to three and widening pavements to accommodate pedestrians.

The work also included stormwater upgrades, trading spaces, bus stops, public toilets and street furniture.

Morero said the changes formed part of the City’s plans to improve transport and support economic activity in the inner city.

“Extensive traffic impact studies were undertaken to provide the best possible outcome for improved safety, accessibility and mobility along this road. The current road modifications support the City’s transit mall concept and the Inner-City Transport Master Plan to integrate transport infrastructure and economic growth,” he said.

Transport MMC Kenny Kunene said the street accommodates between 1 800 and 2 000 vehicles during peak hours, including minibus taxis.

“The newly reconstructed Lilian Ngoyi Street is a crucial milestone for the city as it strives to provide a resilient transport network for all,” Kunene said.

Ageing infrastructure and sinkholes delayed work

JRA chief executive Zweli Nyathi said the project had encountered several construction challenges, including problems with ageing underground infrastructure.

“Throughout the construction period, the project team encountered challenges including adverse weather conditions, ageing underground services, the relocation and replacement of water and sewer infrastructure, and sinkholes caused by underground erosion and leaking services,” Nyathi said.

He said recovery plans had been implemented to address the problems and complete the construction work.

According to the City, more than 200 Expanded Public Works Programme participants were employed during the project, while 27 small, medium and micro enterprises were involved.

Motorists and pedestrians have been urged to follow temporary road signs and safety instructions while the remaining work is completed.

Morero said the outstanding work, including the installation of street furniture, was expected to be completed within the next two weeks.