Premier Thami Ntuli promised to invest millions of rand in repairing potholes.
Image: Independent Media Archives
Potholes will soon be a thing of the past in KwaZulu-Natal road networks if things are to go according to Premier Thami Ntuli’s plan, which he outlined in his State of the Province Address (SOPA) in Pietermaritzburg on Friday.
Ntuli said his government has invested R216 million to address the province’s potholes, starting with the backlog of 3.12 million square meters of them.
To achieve this, he said, the government has secured 55 trucks with over 100 roadworkers and supervisors.
He said the state of many roads was in dire need and potholes, which contribute to road accidents and damage vehicles, should be addressed immediately.
“This would assist in reducing the risk of accidents, including fatalities, improve mobility, and economic activity in the province,” he said.
At the same time, the government would work on refurbishing more rural roads, which he said would enhance investment.
“Inland and rural road infrastructure is vital to unlocking the economic and cultural potential of our hinterland communities.
“These roads connect agricultural areas to markets, link rural enterprises to supply chains, and provide access to cultural and heritage tourism nodes that are central to community-based economic development.”
He said millions of rand have been allocated for the road projects.
“The P304 from KwaMiya to the Drakensberg has reached a 25% milestone with an investment of R177.8 million, while the P31 between Marburg and Port Shepstone is progressing at 13% with a budget of R775 million. These projects are essential for improving access between rural settlements and economic centres.
“We are also advancing roads that directly support tourism and heritage development. The P372 Heritage Tourism Roads project has reached 90% site establishment, supported by an allocation of R426.7 million.
“Similarly, the P7-4 route between Bulwer and Underberg, with a budget of R1.09 billion, and the P230 Umlalazi Drift Rehabilitation project, now at 35% progress with R552.1 million invested, are critical in strengthening inland tourism corridors and local economies,” Ntuli said.
Transport and Human Settlements MEC Siboniso Duma welcomed Ntuli’s announcement regarding the investment in pothole repairs.
“He is saying there is a need to fast-track, meaning there is a need to buy more equipment and entice the scope on the maintenance,” he said.