Thlakanelo road and bridge project begins in Ward 13

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Residents of Thlakanelo Village in Ward 13 have welcomed the start of a long-awaited road and bridge rehabilitation project, with a contractor now officially on site to begin construction.

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The handover ceremony drew community members who described the development as both a relief and a turning point, particularly for those who have struggled with poor road conditions and limited access during bad weather.

Speaking at the event, Mayor Patrick Stuurman said the project forms part of a broader push to improve service delivery during Freedom Month. He emphasised that infrastructure projects like roads are essential for linking communities to services and opportunities.

“Roads are not just about transportation; they are about connecting people to critical services and linking communities across neighbouring villages,” Stuurman said, adding that the project reflects the municipality’s commitment to improving living conditions.

Ward 13 councillor and Portfolio Head for Infrastructure Planning and Development, Francina Shale, said the intervention directly addresses long-standing concerns raised by residents. Accessibility and safety, particularly during heavy rains, have been recurring issues in the area.

The R8.1 million project will include the regravelling of 4.7 kilometres of an existing gravel road, along with the construction of a 20-metre portal culvert bridge. The work is expected to be completed over eight months.

Once finished, the upgraded infrastructure is expected to benefit at least 246 residents across 41 households, improving daily access to schools, healthcare facilities and other essential services.

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For many families in Thlakanelo, the project represents more than infrastructure — it is expected to reduce travel risks, improve mobility, and strengthen connections between rural communities and key services.

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