The push for urgent repairs to the R59 between Vredefort and Viljoenskroon ahead of the NAMPO Harvest Day event in May, will be intensified following concerns over the deteriorating condition of this vital arterial route.
David van Vuuren, DA Spokesperson for Economic Development in the Free State Legislature says they have written to SANRAL seeking clarity on the transfer of the road’s custodianship and to the MEC for Community Safety, Roads and Transport, requesting urgent repairs to the R59.
The department has stated that it has already requested SANRAL to assume responsibility for the road, but SANRAL is reportedly disputing this transfer. The DA’s letter to SANRAL seeks to confirm whether the request was indeed received and, if so, to establish a clear timeline for necessary repairs.
Whilst the department has indicated that the handover and repairs will occur within the next three months, the DA remains sceptical about this timeframe.
The R59 serves as a critical link between farming communities and local markets, transporting several tonnes of grain to silos daily during harvest season. Through the Infrastructure Committee, the DA has received feedback on the road’s deteriorating condition and the district’s interim maintenance plan until SANRAL assumes responsibility—a handover the party fully supports.
The district reportedly requires only R5 million to maintain the road until the transfer is finalised. Failure to allocate this relatively modest amount will accelerate deterioration, increase vehicle damage and transport costs, and place further strain on farmers and small businesses.
These added pressures ultimately affect residents whose jobs and household incomes depend on agricultural productivity and reliable infrastructure. The timing is particularly critical given the approaching NAMPO Harvest Day, which attracts thousands of visitors and requires safe, accessible routes.
The DA remains steadfast in its belief that strong economies are built on sound infrastructure, and that ensuring repairs are completed before NAMPO is essential to protect commuters and safeguard the regional economy.
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