The DA in Limpopo has written to the MEC for Public Works, Road and Infrastructure, Nkakareng Rakgoale, for a prompt intervention over the terrible state of the R521 road between All Days and Vivo and the R572 road between All Days and Tom Burke.
We have received numerous complaints from motorists, farmers and community members that make use of these roads on a daily basis and are endangering their lives. There have been unnecessary accidents, many of which have resulted in the loss of life and where cars were damaged due to the poor state of these roads.
The R521 and R572 are characterised by stretches of road which no longer have tar, the tar at the side of the roads is breaking up and very big potholes. The roads are also economically significant as workers, tourists, logistics vehicles as well as mining trucks make use of these roads and there is a lot of game lodges and farming activity along these roads. These activities are badly affected by the poor state of the roads. View photos here, here , here and here.
The terrible condition of the road and the unnecessary accidents on the R521 and R572 roads demonstrate the lethargy of Roads Agency Limpopo (RAL) in carrying out its mandate. RAL is meant to provide quality provincial road infrastructure network for the economic development of the province, but has largely proven itself to be a poorly run entity that has failed to provide services to the people of Limpopo.
Rakgoale, must prioritise the rehabilitation of the R521 and R527 and where appropriate include them in operation Thiba Mekoti Ditseleng. Her department must also provide clarity on the plans and timelines for maintenance on these roads.
The DA cares about the safety of road users and is committed to ensure that residents have access to an adequate provincial road infrastructure network that supports economic development and job creation.