For now, drivers can find some comfort in the still-intact construction traffic signs that still warn of the dangers on the road. Photo by Morapedi Mashashe
GAUTENG is known for having the most congested roads in Mzansi.
Residents and motorists using Beyers Naude Drive are now having to deal with lengthy delays in the completion of the much-needed upgrade.
Yellow plastic roadblocks, valued at between R1,000 and R3,000 each, lie abandoned and in disrepair, left behind by the construction company. Photo by Morapedi Mashashe
The R200 million project to ease congestion and fix potholes is now on hold after the contractor reportedly walked off the site.
Allegations emerged that the subcontractor tasked with heavy work such as removing large trees was not paid for his efforts, adding further controversy to the situation.
A Gauteng provincial road construction notice has been wiped out by strong winds, highlighting negligence and lack of accountability from authorities. Photo by Morapedi Mashashe
Exposed electrical cables are left uncovered and have no warning signs. Photo by Morapedi Mashashe
Exposed electrical cables are left uncovered and have no warning signs. Photo by Morapedi Mashashe
Instead of improving, roadworks have led to frustration among residents of Zandspruit Kasi and Muldersdrift in Gauteng.
In Muldersdrift, Gauteng province, some business owners and residents have piled up sandbags to minimize damage to their driveways. Photo by Morapedi Mashashe
Business owners and residents must navigate roadblocks blocking their driveways. Photo by Morapedi Mashashe
Adding to the neglect, yellow plastic roadblocks valued at between R1,000 and R3,000 each were left to deteriorate and crushed road base sand worth around R600 per cubic meter was left on the side of the road.
These materials, intended for modernization, now serve as a stark reminder of the stalled project.
Crushed road base sand, which costs around R600 per cubic meter from reputable suppliers, was left unattended on the side of the road by the construction company. Photo by Morapedi Mashashe
Crushed road base sand, which costs around R600 per cubic meter from reputable suppliers, was left unattended on the side of the road by the construction company. Photo by Morapedi Mashashe
Rainwater deepens the excavated roadside and threatens to erode the road surface if left unattended for a long time. Photo by Morapedi Mashashe
Rainwater deepens the excavated roadside and threatens to erode the road surface if left unattended for a long time. Photo by Morapedi Mashashe
Motorists traveling along Beyers Naude Drive have raised concerns about visibility issues caused by large piles of rocks and plastic barriers on the side of the road.
Many fear that these barriers could lead to accidents, highlighting the urgent need for intervention.
As motorists wait for action, questions remain about accountability and effective project management.
The Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport has raised concerns over the construction project, which was originally priced at R168.99 million including VAT, rather than R200 million as speculated. Transport MEC spokesperson Lesiba Mpya clarified that the contractor was paid R18.98 million for completed and certified works, with retentions of R1.74 million and a performance bond of R16.9 million Rand was claimed due to disputes.
To continue the project, the department issued a request for proposal (RFQ) on October 11, 2024, with a briefing on October 17 and a submission deadline of November 5. The bid evaluation committee examines the proposals. The final appointment of the contractor is expected on March 30, 2025. Construction, expected to take 18 months, should be completed by September 2026 if the timelines are met.
To prevent similar problems, the department will introduce stricter criteria for contractors, including financial stability and certifications. However, there are concerns about the possible exclusion of previously disadvantaged groups due to requirements such as equity participation of 20% of the contract value.
The department also included provisions in the new contract to address outstanding payments to subcontractors under the previous contract.
A pile of large rocks and plastic roadblocks block drivers' visibility on Beyers Naude Drive. Photo by Morapedi Mashashe
Yellow plastic roadblocks abandoned by the construction company and deteriorating could be dangerous for motorists traveling on Beyers Naude Drive. Photo by Morapedi Mashashe