SANRAL announces work will soon start on partial reconstruction of R21 national road in Gauteng

14km reconstruction between Pomona Road close to OR Tambo International Airport and Olifantsfontein Road Pretoria,

9 November 2023 – The South African National Roads Agency SOC Limited (SANRAL) has announced a R309 million project to reconstruct 14km of the R21 National Road in Gauteng. The project stretches from the Pomona Road Interchange close to OR Tambo International Airport to the Olifantsfontein Road Interchange in the direction of Pretoria.

Progress Hlahla, head of SANRAL’s Northern Region, said the reconstruction of the R21 was set to start early in 2024 after a three-month mobilisation period for the contractor, followed by a 24-month construction period.

“The R21 is a critical artery in South Africa’s transportation network and this reconstruction of 14km will significantly improve its current condition and enhance mobility. The R21 is a priority for SANRAL because of the role that it plays in moving people, goods and services. It handles a massive amount of traffic, with an average daily volume of over 45,000 vehicles in each direction, 11 per cent of which is heavy vehicles,” said Hlahla.

To minimise disruptions for road users, the project will include a comprehensive traffic accommodation plan to carefully manage lane closures and ensure minimal impact during peak traffic hours. A combination of daytime and night-time work will be carried out during off-peak periods to minimise inconvenience to road users. Short-term closures will be limited to off-peak periods only where practical. The safety of motorists and construction workers is paramount and will be prioritised at all times.

In line with SANRAL’s transformation agenda for the construction industry, the project will place an emphasis on the inclusion of Targeted Enterprises i.e. SMMEs, especially those owned by women, youth, people with disabilities and military veterans. With this approach, SANRAL supports local economic growth and job creation.

“During the construction phase, at least 30% of the contract value will be subcontracted to Targeted Enterprises and a minimum of six percent (6%) earmarked for Targeted Labour. This project promises to revitalise a critical artery of South Africa’s transportation network whilst giving effect to SANRAL’s transformation objectives. Road users can anticipate light traffic disruptions over the coming months but can ultimately look forward to improved riding quality, better surface drainage and enhanced road safety when the project is complete,” said Hlahla.

SANRAL awarded the contract to construction firm Roadmac Surfacing (Pty) Ltd. The roads agency has also appointed consulting engineering firm KBK Engineers (Pty) Ltd, who will supervise the construction process and ensure the project adheres to the highest standards of quality and safety.

The scope of work on the project includes the repair and maintenance of the road infrastructure as follows:
• Main Carriageway Fast Lanes: Surface repairs;
• Main Carriageway Slow Lanes: Surface repairs;
• Emergency Lanes and Inner Shoulders: Addressing defects with crack sealing and patching;
• Resurfacing (Friction Course): New friction course (UTFC) over the full width of the carriageways;
• Ramps and Cross Roads: Sealing cracks, patching localised failures and new asphalt levelling course; and,
• Bridge Decks: Mill and replace surfacing and installation of new asphaltic plug-type joints.