The Western Cape Government’s Department of Infrastructure (DOI) is making good progress on a R5 million temporary bypass along the MR279 (Vyeboom Road) between Villiersdorp and Grabouw, following extensive flood damage to critical road infrastructure.
This route has been a persistent struggle for communities since September 2023, when severe flooding wreaked havoc across the Overberg region. Floodwaters washed away sections of the R321 near Vyeboon, including infrastructure associated with the bridge over the Rust River and its culverts, cutting off a vital link for residents, farmers and businesses.
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The project forms part of DOI’s ongoing efforts to restore connectivity, improve road safety and minimise disruption to communities and road users affected by flood-damaged infrastructure. The temporary bypass – including site clearance, roadbed preparation and the installation of temporary culverts – is facilitating safe traffic movement while permanent emergency repairs proceed.
Main Road washed away
Premier Alan Winde said: “When a main road near Villiersdorp washed away in storms earlier this year, our officials got to work planning a bypass. The R5 million project will be finished in less than six weeks. This temporary bypass will allow vehicles to travel along this route once again, until a more permanent solution is in place.”
Winde highlighted that the project is providing work for 30 people, with local suppliers delivering materials and equipment. Staff are also being trained in bulk layer works and concrete structures. He thanked Minister Tertuis Simmers and the Department of Infrastructure team for their work on the repair.
‘Every road connection matters’
Simmers said: “Every road connection matters to the communities that depend on it. When flooding damages critical infrastructure, the impact extends beyond the road itself, affecting people’s mobility, access to essential services and economic activity.
“Our immediate priority is to establish a safe, practical alternative route while creating the conditions for permanent repairs to proceed. This R5 million intervention demonstrates our commitment to restoring connectivity and rebuilding infrastructure affected by severe weather events.”
The target completion date for the temporary bypass is November this year, subject to favourable site and construction conditions. The Department remains committed to maintaining safe and reliable provincial road infrastructure and progressing with the recovery of flood-damaged routes across the Western Cape.
