Western Cape Government allocates R90.8 million for urgent transport infrastructure repairs

The Western Cape has been grappling with severe weather-related incidents throughout 2023 and 2024, significantly affecting the transport infrastructure across the provincial road network. In response to damage estimates that far exceed available resources, the Western Cape Government has taken decisive action by allocating additional funding and reallocating internal budgets within the Department of Infrastructure (DOI) to commence necessary repairs.

Major investment in road safety

One prominent initiative is a comprehensive R90.8 million project near De Doorns, aimed at enhancing the region's road safety and structural integrity. “This recently completed project involves constructing a new bridge on the Modderdrift Road crossing the Sand River, improving the long-term structural integrity of two bridges across the Hex River, and conducting urgent flood damage repairs to roads, bridges, and drainage structures,” explained Jandré Bakker, DOI Director of Operational Support. He noted that due to overwhelming demand, repairs are being staggered across multiple financial years to ensure quick interventions while safeguarding other essential projects.

Comprehensive repair features

The project boasts an extensive set of features that address various damages, including:

• Replacing a bridge and repairing the approach road on Divisional Road 1438 (Modderdrift Road).
• Rebuilding a damaged section of a bridge on Minor Road 5721 and constructing a new low-water bridge on this route.
• Restoring damaged sections of a bridge on OP5719.
• Building a new retaining wall on OP5742.
• Replacing a culvert on DR1379.
• Repairing damaged sections of DR1379, R1435, and OP5726, including drainage structures.
• Installing erosion protection measures for various bridges and roads in the affected area.

Boosting the local economy

This ambitious project has also injected significant opportunities into the local economy. As highlighted by the MEC for Infrastructure, Tertuis Simmers, “The project created 9,194 person-days of work and provided 57 job opportunities. We allocated R4.1 million for procurement from targeted enterprises and awarded three contracts to local businesses.” Simmers emphasised the ministry's commitment not only to rebuilding the roads but also to fostering job creation within the province.

Addressing community concerns

As the community observes ongoing construction, there may be lingering frustration over the slower response times to routine road maintenance. “Road users may only see the sections of road they regularly travel,” Simmers explained. “However, our teams are diligently addressing flood damage repairs across the province. By unveiling the scale of our flood repair works on the extensive provincial road network, we aim to enhance public understanding of our responsibilities and funding allocations.”