Road upgrade eradicates pesky potholes

A group of construction workers putting the finishing touches on the Mlotshwa Road in Saul Mkhizeville, Mpumalanga, as part of Kangra’s refurbishment project.

Once riddled with potholes, the Mlotshwa Road that connects Saul Mkhizeville residents to schools and health facilities in Mkhondo, Mpumalanga, has been restored thanks to Kangra’s efforts. The project was handed over to the Mkhondo Local Municipality in February as part of Kangra’s Social and Labour Plan (SLP). Upgrades to the road included fixing potholes on the 18-kilometre road that connects to the N2.

The municipality’s MMC for Corporate Services, Mthandeni Mkhabela, lauded the project. “We have agreed with Kangra that this is one of the critical roads connecting different wards within the Mkhondo Municipality. It is part of the economic infrastructure that is assisting our local economy to grow,” said Mkhabela.

Mlotshwa Road is critical for residents travelling to work, school, or health facilities like the Piet Retief Hospital, approximately 55 kilometres from Saul Mkhizeville. It also serves as an access point for businesses that need to transport goods to various markets. However, the condition of the road deteriorated over the years, posing a safety risk to travellers.

Mkhabela said upgrading the road was crucial as it ensures seamless transportation of goods, minimising damage. Kangra identified the project through engagements with various stakeholders, including the community and local businesses, aligning it with the municipality’s Integrated Development Plan, an official plan approved by the municipal council.

Kangra’s General Manager, Paul Redelinghuys, said the fulfilment of SLP projects was necessary for the mine’s mission to impact communities positively. The aim was to ensure that the road remained intact for longer. “We embarked on sealing the road with an asphalt layer to prevent further cracks in the next two to three years,” he remarked. Faded road lines and stop signs were also repainted, making them visible for safety. Redelinghuys further thanked the local farmers from the area, who also played a role in ensuring that the project was a success.