Although the Limpopo Department of Roads and Transport needs R1,2bn to address backlogs, it has secured R240m to be utilized urgently in the upgrading of poor road facilities.

The money will be split into buying graders, road fencing projects and certain traffic requirements and needs.

This was disclosed by the Head of Department, Mrs Mabel Makibela during the Department’s Imbizo with communities at the Malavuwe sports grounds last week. The Imbizo was also aimed at introducing the newly appointed MEC for Roads and Transport, Justice Pitso, to members of the community. Unfortunately, he could not attend because of other official commitments.

Makibela said there would be no need to delay the upgrading of the roads because all the preparations have been sealed. "We expect the whole thing to start next week and to be completed at the end of March. This includes re-gravelling and tarring of certain roads, road fencing and blading. We know it will take some time to address the backlogs but there is no reason to sit and relax while bad road conditions continue to cause unwarranted accidents." Makibela added that the department would engage in special operations to lower the high number of accidents during the festive season. "Some staff members will be required to work overtime, while some will not even take leave. We also need community assistance to intensify law enforcement because traffic offenders need to be brought to book. More traffic officers will be visible and we will use a multi-integrated approach to win this war against accidents."

Community members were given opportunities to register their grievances during the proceedings. The majority of them complained about the poor road conditions in rural areas, alleged corruption in the issuing of tenders for road constructions and escalating bribery by traffic officers.