FREE STATE – The deteriorating condition of several rural roads in the Free State is raising concerns about residents’ access to healthcare, emergency services, employment and economic opportunities.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) has lodged a formal complaint with the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC), calling for an investigation into the condition and maintenance of key routes across the province.
The roads identified in the complaint include the R709 between Winburg and Excelsior, the R720 between Koppies and Edenville, and the S629, S636 and S1045 outside Bothaville.
The concerns extend beyond potholes and road maintenance, with poor conditions reportedly affecting the ability of emergency services, workers and farmers to travel safely and reliably.
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According to the complaint, sections of the R709 have reportedly become difficult or impossible for ambulances to access. It also refers to a reported incident in early September in which a farm worker allegedly died following inadequate access. The circumstances of the reported death have not been independently verified.
The R720 is reportedly regularly flooded and rendered impassable because of damaged drainage infrastructure. Meanwhile, the roads outside Bothaville have been described as being in extremely poor condition.
The SAHRC has been asked to investigate whether the failure to maintain the roads and prevent foreseeable harm amounts to an infringement of residents’ human rights, and to recommend appropriate redress.
The condition of rural roads remains a significant concern for communities that rely on them to reach hospitals, schools, workplaces, emergency services and markets. Poor access can also affect the transportation of livestock and agricultural produce.
The complaint places renewed attention on the responsibility of authorities to maintain road infrastructure and ensure that rural communities are not cut off from essential services.
