Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport, Ismail Vadi, today launched a R158 million road construction project near the Rust der Winter and Mkhombo Nature Reserves, north-east of Pretoria.
Vadi said that the 11.5 km project entails the full construction of the road from a gravel to a tarred road.
“This project will provide for better economic linkages and mobility between Gauteng and Limpopo province and is scheduled to be completed over the next 18 months,” said Vadi.
He added that the reconstruction of the D1944 road “will reduce travel time; allow for improved transportation of people, goods and services across the two provinces; enhance road safety, and reduce dust pollution along the route”.
The D1944 is a tertiary provincial gravel road in the north-eastern corner of the province. The main work items to be undertaken include the reconstruction of the road and culverts; the building of two bridges; the placing of road markings and road signage and the erection of bus shelters along the route.
“This road infrastructure investment is in support of the Gauteng provincial government’s development initiatives that seek to create jobs and integrate agricultural and tourism opportunities with transport corridors,” added Vadi.
As part of the developmental programme the contractor is expected to provide training for employed local labour and arranging Construction Education and Training Authority approved courses. This will ensure that sub-contracted companies have registered, accredited training to help in their future business endeavours.
The project is also designed to empower emerging sub-contractors and to employ local labour, particularly youth, women and persons with disabilities.
For more information, please contact:
Ms Melitah Madiba
Cell: 073 644 9935
E-mail: Melitah.madiba@gauteng.gov.za
