Important Facts of the News
- Significant progress achieved on M43 (Atlas Road) and Rooihuiskraal/N14 projects.
- Several M43 intersections operational, but some damaged due to vandalism.
- Damaged components include power units, poles, and copper cables.
- Procurement underway to restore vandalised intersections; costs pending.
- Some M43 intersections fall under City of Ekurhuleni jurisdiction.
- Upcoming procurement aims to strengthen maintenance response in Gauteng.
- Recurring vandalism and cable theft costing province millions.
- Rooihuiskraal/N14 off-ramp project to proceed as standalone development.
- Service provider procurement planned for Q3 of Financial Year 2025/2026.
Gauteng’s Road Improvements Gain Momentum
The Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport has reported notable advancements in its ongoing road infrastructure initiatives. Key updates include the M43 (Atlas Road) in Ekurhuleni and the Rooihuiskraal/N14 off-ramp in Centurion, where progress is steady despite challenges.
Vandalism Impacting Infrastructure
While several intersections along the M43 are now fully functional, recent inspections reveal that some sections remain inactive due to vandalism. Damaged elements include power supply units, poles, and copper cables. The Department is currently finalising procurement steps to repair these areas, with costs to be confirmed once the process concludes.
A number of intersections fall under the City of Ekurhuleni, and discussions will be held to ensure collaborative restoration efforts. MEC Kedibone Diale-Tlabela reiterated the Department’s resolve to ensure all traffic signals and routes operate effectively for enhanced safety and efficiency.
Maintenance and Community Involvement
The upcoming procurement of maintenance contractors is expected to boost the province’s ability to address future faults quickly. At the same time, the MEC expressed concern over the ongoing problems caused by cable theft and infrastructure vandalism, which have resulted in costly setbacks for public projects.
Communities across Gauteng are encouraged to partner with law enforcement by reporting suspicious activity and aiding efforts to safeguard public infrastructure.
Rooihuiskraal/N14 Standalone Project
The Rooihuiskraal/N14 off-ramp development will move ahead as a separate project, with the appointment of a contractor scheduled for the third quarter of the 2025/2026 financial year. The upgrade is part of the province’s strategy to ease congestion and support greater economic growth by improving traffic routes across key hubs.