KOPPIES – The R720 gravel road linking Koppies, Edenville and Heilbron has deteriorated into a dangerous and largely impassable route following pipeline construction that began three years ago. The road becomes completely inaccessible during rainfall and hazardous even under normal conditions, posing serious risks to motorists and emergency services.

Cllr Carina Serfontein of the Ngwathe Municipality has urged the Free State Department of Community Safety, Roads and Transport to investigate the project, provide a full account of expenditure, and hold contractors accountable.

“Vehicles, including cars, tractors and trucks, regularly get stuck, and many have already been damaged,” says Serfontein. “Water pools on the road due to inadequate drainage, and stormwater infrastructure has been destroyed.”

In some areas, the road has narrowed to a single lane, with rocks left from construction blocking access. A recent accident has highlighted the urgent need for intervention. Drainage pipes delivered weeks ago have yet to be installed, and some were damaged during offloading, leaving no corrective action in place. Ongoing pipeline testing continues to worsen conditions. The road’s deterioration is disrupting the local farming community, preventing farmers from transporting produce and workers from accessing farms. Owners of game farms also face financial losses as hunters cannot reach properties.

The wider agricultural value chain, including companies such as VKB and Senwes, is being affected, creating broader economic consequences. Serfontein says the party called for immediate repairs, temporary access measures, replacement of damaged materials at contractors’ cost, and a clear, time-bound rehabilitation plan.

“Communities cannot be left stranded, livelihoods cannot be compromised, and lives cannot be placed at risk due to poor planning and lack of accountability,” Serfontein concluded.