Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport Ismail Vadi has announced Phase 2 of the N12 freeway rehabilitation project costing R120 million, which stretches from Eldorado Park to Zuurbekom, near Soweto.

This follows a R374 million upgrade of the N12 freeway launched last month from Zuurbekom (south of Lenasia) to the North West boundary near Fochville.

Vadi said the total cost of the 50 km stretch of the dual carriageway being rehabilitated is slightly under R500 million. He emphasised that the ‘user pay’ principle will not apply to this segment of the freeway being upgraded and no toll fees will be charged.

“The N12 is part of Gauteng’s strategic road network,” said Vadi. “It is critical for economic development as it supports the mining, agricultural and tourism sectors. It also serves as a major collector and distributor of road and freight traffic for business, industrial and agricultural areas along the route.”

 

Repairing structural damage

The road has exceeded its lifespan of 25 years and has been degrading rapidly in recent years, resulting in the current rehabilitation projects. Both phases of project are aimed at repairing structural damages to the road and the full resurfacing of the freeway.

Vadi appealed to motorists to be patient, tolerant and careful on the N12 as the rehabilitation work will result in traffic delays and inconvenience to motorists travelling along this route.

The project will be implemented along 14 municipal wards spanning the cities of Johannesburg, Westonaria and Merafong. It will ensure that local labour and contractors benefit from the project and it is designed to recruit youth, women and disabled persons into the work plan. Different segments of the N12 project are scheduled to be completed within 12 to 24 months.