The upgrade of the R573 – Moloto Road – is progressing steadily, but progress has brought with it some challenges. Encroachments, in the form of structures being erected without approval inside the building restriction zone, along with informal businesses close to the road reserve, have caused disruptions and put the safety of road users at risk. SANRAL has partnered with local municipalities and consulted local traditional authorities to try to address these issues, but the problem persists.
The agency embarked on a roadshow to educate stakeholders on statutory control issues and the allocation of tribal land to communities.
Trading inside the national road reserve and the increasing number of informal shops or stalls at intersections – especially near Phola Mall – are major challenges. This matter was brought to the attention of the Thembisile Hani municipality for intervention.
Unfortunately, these issues are not being resolved as quickly as SANRAL had hoped.
Unfortunately, these issues are not being resolved as quickly as SANRAL had hoped.
Setting up businesses close to the road may seem convenient, but it is a massive safety hazard. Consumers flocking to the area run the risk of being hit by fast-moving cars when they cross the road.
SANRAL is committed to community development and supporting the local businesses that are the livelihood of many in the area. That’s why the agency has partnered with the provincial and local authorities’ plans to accommodate these traders in areas off the road reserve at much safer spots.
Local communities are requested to respect beacons placed by surveyors that indicate the national road reserve. Headmen/chiefs have also been asked not to allocate stands inside the road reserve. In the areas where the road reserve is not demarcated, they are encouraged to liaise with SANRAL’s Routine Road Maintenance Manager (RRM) or representatives for assistance.
