GEORGES VALLEY R528: Still a road to nowhere
The Georges Valley road is still no yellow brick road that leads to the Wizard of Oz, but there seems to be light at the end of the 'Sink-hole-tunnel.'
The George’s Valley road is still under construction after a sink hole under the road collapsed.
Batlagae Investments has been awarded the tender to repair the road.
According to a Project Manager, Thapelo Chuene, they are working towards finishing the road in four months.
The problem is that road users and truck drivers still bypass the sign that was erected from Tzaneen that leads to the road.
There is absolutely no way anyone can cross the road from where construction is underway which is approximately 18km.
An alternative route for trucks to use is the R81 along Modjadjiskloof and Mooketsi.
A warning sign was put up at Polokwane for all heavy vehicles to not use the George’s Valley road.
There is also absolutely no space for trucks to turn around if they get to the construction sight.
Other vehicles and residents on the road should use the Magoebaskloof road.
Roads Agency Limpopo CEO, Maselaganye Matji visited the George’s Valley (R528) project to monitor progress on the repairs of the road on April 13.
According to the Roads Agency Limpopo, during his visit he had an opportunity to meet and speak to some of the farmers around the area.
‘The farmers continue to assist the contractor, Batlagae Investment in ensuring that George’s valley is speedily repaired,’ Matji said.
During the meeting, Matji assured farmers of the Agency’s commitment to repair George’s Valley road and future plans on the road.
During the meeting farmers and residents in the Georges Valley area have also suggested that a weighbridge must be considered for the trucks using the road in future.
It is not the intention of Letaba Herald to make fun of the situation, and are well aware of the frustration that residents and road users of the R528 are currently experienced, but in a lighthearted manner, we share the following song with all of you.
In the meanwhile, residents can memorize the lyrics to the song: “The Yellow Brick Road” from the musical, “The Wizard of Oz.” When construction is eventually completed, hopefully all can use this part of the R528 again with a song in their heart.
