Rehabilitation works on the Solomon Mahlangu drive (K69) in Mamelodi, South Africa have resumed. This after the Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport led by their MEC Mr. Jacob Mamabolo cut the sod to mark the resumption of the rehabilitation and upgrading works.
“Road infrastructure is the key to any country’s economic progress. If we are serious about the township economy, investments such as this are a necessity,” said the MEC while addressing the Mamelodi community members.
The road project will be fully funded by the Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport at a tune of US $4.19m.
The rehabilitation works
The 12km road project involves dualing of the existing carriageway to increase its capacity, improve safety and accessibility for existing and future developments along the K69.
There will also be construction of a bridge over Pienaars River, upgrading of intersections along the route, upgrading of storm water management systems, as well as cleaning the road reserve.
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Bus/taxi bays will also be constructed at selected intersections in favor of public transport and passenger convenience.
The project is expected to be completed by the end of the second quarter of 2021.
Benefits of the project
Mamabolo said that the project will have numerous benefits to the community during and after construction. “During the construction period, local businesses will enjoy 30% of the entire contract value and the community members will benefit from skills transfer and training programmes that will be offered at this particular time,” he affirmed.
“Upon completion, this project will make the movement of people and goods much easier, and will drastically reduce the probability of road accidents and congestion.” he concluded.
The K69 road has been prone to high volumes of traffic bringing about congestion during peak morning and afternoon hours.
