Central SA
Road of death’s reconstruction seems well under way – VIDEO─── TSHEHLA KOTELI 09:10 Fri, 10 Mar 2023
The reconstruction of the Free State R30 road, which has claimed at least 15 lives in a space of three months – January to March 2022 – seems to be well under way.
ALSO READ: Death toll increases on closed #R30 in Free State
The reconstruction of this road between Allanridge and Welkom has cost the provincial department of Community Safety, Roads, and Transport at least R22 million.
The department was previously known as that of Police, Roads, and Transport. The departmental spokesperson, Hillary Mophethe, explained to OFM News at the time that the tender was awarded to Matela Civils and Construction, which has a standing record with the department. OFM News drove past the reconstruction on Thursday 9 March 2023.
ALSO READ: Free State 'road of death' to be fixed for R22 million
The project – to repair and prevent flooding of areas along the R30 road near Nyakallong and north of Allanridge towards Bothaville – was estimated to be finished within three months from the commencement date. It was understood to be completed in March 2023. The projects included lifting and tarring the road, building an open earth drain, installing stormwater pipes, reinstating road markings and signage, and installing road studs and guardrails. "The temporary job creation and economic relief will be a much-needed financial injection for a very impoverished community," said the DA councillor at the Matjhabeng Local Municipality, Jessica Nel.
ALSO READ: Contractor yet to be appointed for the construction of #R30
The road gained traction when an Intercape bus with 83 passengers got trapped in a body of water in February 2022. No injuries were reported. Later on that the same day, a truck, a sedan and Range Rover were reportedly also caught in the flooding.
This was despite warning signs on the dangers of this part of the road. It later appeared some drivers were not taking heed of warning signs.
OFM News was at the scene and reported that the gravel section isn’t the only issue on this road. Before one reaches Welkom on the R30, there is a body of water seeping into the road, and one can safely assume that if there is any more rainfall, that part of the road could again pose an increasing threat to motorists.
