The initiation Commencement of N2 KwaBhaca to Ngcweleni River Road Development has been declared by the South African National Roads Agency SOC Limited (SANRAL). This undertaking involves the N2’s current alignment, originating in KwaBhaca and concluding at the Ngcweleni River Bridge close to EmaXesibeni.
Valued at R1.2 billion, the project has an impact on both the Umzimvubu Local Municipality and Ntabankulu Local Municipality, situated within the Alfred Nzo District Municipality.
Rumdel Cape Construction was awarded the contract in February of this current year, with expectations for its completion within a span of 45 months.
The anticipated advantages of this road enhancement encompass improved road safety, alleviated traffic congestion, and enhanced pedestrian safety. Furthermore, notable socio-economic impacts are expected, including job creation, skills advancement, and a financial infusion into the local economy.
Scopes for the N2 KwaBhaca to Ngcweleni River Road Development.
The project’s scope encompasses several tasks, such as renovating the current roadway pavement structure for both N2 Section 19 (from km 92.4 to km 95.012) and N2 Section 20 (from km 0.0 to km 39.4). Additionally, it involves broadening the existing road cross-section to incorporate climbing lanes, establishing a new bridge and three significant culverts, widening five bridges and four major culverts, constructing a pedestrian bridge at Phakade, upgrading intersections with sheltered right-turn and left-turn lanes, and ensuring sufficient stacking distances based on a conducted traffic impact study for the necessary Level of Service (LOS). Other components encompass building pedestrian walkways and community service roads.
More than 75 Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) are set to be sub-contracted for this project, leading to the creation of approximately 600 job openings. A minimum of 30 percent of the contract’s total value is designated for sub-contracting to SMMEs,” explained Mbulelo Peterson, the Southern Region manager of SANRAL.
“We have also included provisions for training SMMEs involved in this project. The training covers topics such as Site Administration Procedures, Contract Documentation, and Tendering for Construction Projects. This training aims to empower the SMMEs and contribute to their sustainability beyond the completion of the SANRAL project,” he added.
The SMMEs participating In the project will oversee various tasks including civil works, fencing, goods supply, and security.
“I appreciate the opportunity presented by this SANRAL project to our community and to us as SMMEs. Through this chance, we can support 12 families and will generate around 100 job opportunities throughout the project’s duration. This is a significant avenue for growth for our young company established in 2016. Engaging in this contract will enhance our company’s reputation and unlock more possibilities in the future,” stated Siphiwo Sandla, the owner of Okonke Security, one of the SMMEs sub-contracted to manage security for the project.
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