In a significant development for the communities of Lugelweni, Emaxesibeni, the Umzimvubu Local Municipality has initiated a crucial road repair program. The commencement of road maintenance activities marks the end of a prolonged struggle for residents in the region.
Well-maintained access roads play a pivotal role in facilitating access to essential government services and promoting commercial trade within local communities. Mayor Cllr. Zukiswa Ndevu, in a statement, underscored the significance of this road maintenance initiative, emphasizing that it aims to enhance community access to government services and bolster interaction among neighboring communities.
Originally slated for a six-month duration, starting from June and concluding in December, the project now appears poised to finish by the end of October. The Umzimvubu Local Municipality remains committed to its municipal Integrated Development Plan (IDP), which includes the maintenance of several access roads.
Parallelly, the South African National Roads Agency Limited (SANRAL) has commenced the N2 route rehabilitation program in KwaBhaca, a substantial undertaking with a budget of 1.4 million. This project has not only rejuvenated the region’s infrastructure but also generated employment opportunities for residents and small businesses.
Residents of the Umzimvubu local municipality have secured job opportunities as part of the road maintenance initiative, addressing the issue of unemployment within the community. Lunga Maqalekane, the project manager responsible for the access road, highlighted the early stages of the access road project, emphasizing the reconstruction of a 1500mm layer of gravel road.
A significant portion of the project budget, amounting to R230,000, has been allocated to compensate both skilled and unskilled labour at a rate of R140 per day from the total budget of R1.4 million.
The government has identified and approved 28 roads for completion by the year’s end. Remarkably, 26 of these projects have already been finalized, with just two roads remaining—one in Emaxesibeni and the other in KwaBhaca, as confirmed by PR councilor Ntombizandile Garhane.
However, motorists are advised to exercise caution when approaching these areas, as the project is expected to continue for at least five more months. Road safety remains a top priority for all stakeholders involved in this crucial infrastructure development initiative.
