The R90 million Road D670 rehabilitation project between Bronkhorstspruit and Ekangala, east of Tshwane was unveiled by Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport, Ismail Vadi, this week.

The 19km road project, which was wholly funded by the department, was completed eight months ahead of schedule.

The rehabilitated road, which forms part of the northern corridor, will not only ensure continuous and effective operations of the coal power station but also provide safer conditions for daily commuters traveling to work.

Adhering to timelines and budgets

According to Vadi the completion of the project ahead of schedule demonstrated the department’s commitment to adhering to set timetables and allocated budgets.

The road, which services mines and power stations, was in a bad state as a result of the pressure from heavy traffic volumes and coal trucks.

“The rehabilitated road will stimulate local economic participation and growth. Furthermore, it will improve traffic capacity, particularly coal haulers travelling from Ekangala towards the N4.

“This is part of the Gauteng provincial government’s efforts to roll out road infrastructure aimed at stimulating economic growth,” said MEC Vadi.

Skills development and local labour

The project’s objectives included improving the structural and functional integrity of the road by strengthening the pavement structure and providing a new asphalt overlay.

MEC Vadi added that the project also provided skills development to local labour as well as empowerment of BBBEE contractors, with the main contractor sub-contracting a percentage of work to local SMMEs.

“The project was undertaken through labour intensive methods and preference was given to local SMMEs in pursuit of the thirty percent sub-contracting requirements. Local labour employed included females and youth,” he said.