The South African National Roads Agency (Sanral) has officially confirmed their taking over of major repairs and maintenance of three interprovincial roads in the Free State. The road agency announced on 3 November the R26, R74, and R34 roads fall under its jurisdiction in terms of the Government Gazette of 27 October 2023.
The agency added that it was in the process of appointing a service provider utilising its emergency procurement policy with work expected to start before the end of November. The roads in question are the major arteries through which the economy pulses in the Free State, KwaZulu-Natal, and North West.
The takeover by Sanral is owing to the Free State government’s failure to eradicate the backlog to maintain and repair deteriorating roads. This is a result of the discussions between the various stakeholders in government and endorsements informed by the collapse of infrastructure in the province.
“The upgrades to these road corridors will provide a massive boost to the economy of the region and will greatly increase the road capacity in the area. These areas are the lifeblood of our agricultural economy and as Sanral we must ensure that continuous road upgrades and maintenance will enable farmers and the rural communities to transport their goods, services and produce to the markets on roads that are safe to use,” said Dumisani Nkabinde, Sanral’s regional manager for the eastern region.
He said under Sanral’s management these roads will stimulate economic activity and employment opportunities.
“Maintenance and upgrades will provide greater access for local communities, job opportunities, and small businesses through sub-contracting. This will enable all motorists to travel on safe and secure roads,” said Nkabinde.
The provincial government’s failure to maintain road infrastructure has led to about 70% of roads in the Free State declared a danger to motorists due to terrible conditions, noted with potholes which expand into sinkholes.
