On Thursday, August 22, 2024, Transport Minister, Ms. Barbara Creecy, accompanied by the Deputy Minister of Transport, Mr. Mkhuleko Hlengwa, along with national and Gauteng provincial leaders and SANRAL officials, undertook an inspection of the ongoing repair and rehabilitation efforts on the R21 national road leading to OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg. They were joined by teams of engineers and road construction specialists to evaluate the progress of the work.
The South African National Roads Agency Limited (SANRAL) is currently undertaking various roadworks projects within the Gauteng province including the rehabilitation of about 14km of the R21 to improve its condition and enhance mobility within the corridor. The project commenced in early 2024 and aims to be finished in approximately 24 months, following the emergence of two sinkholes on the northbound lanes heading towards Pretoria, just after the Olifantsfontein interchange. Currently, the rehabilitation work is roughly 88% complete, while the R21 road rehabilitation stands at 36%.
The Minister also joined a team of road maintenance in the patching and fixing of potholes at the Tugela Street, Langaville in Tsakane, Ekurhuleni as part of the Vala Zonke pothole fixing programme. The Vala Zonke programme is a labour-intensive programme which aims to fix potholes throughout South Africa.
The Minister also spoke to the residents of Tsakane, assuring them that the Department of Transport is committed to improving the roads in Ekurhuleni and throughout Gauteng. In a short interview with eNCA News, Minister Creecy reiterated that the Department will work closely with the province and municipalities to address potholes in the area Gauteng. The Deputy Minister also addressed the community, expressing gratitude for their trust in bringing about positive change. He also shared insights on the budget allocated for the #OperationValaZonke.
In her concluding remarks, the Minister urged the people of Tsakane to refrain from damaging the roads and to avoid conflicts as the Government of National Unity (GNU) works to improve their communities.
