“This interchange forms of part government’s road infrastructure initiatives that are delivered through the South African National Roads Agency (Sanral). The project has brought about job creation and empowered the local and surrounding SMMEs with skills development and subcontracting opportunities,” said Mbalula.
He was in Mpumalanga on Friday where he spent the day inspecting and monitoring progress on some of the major roadworks around the province.
According to Alex van Niekerk, the chief executive officer of Trans African Concessions, Sanral’s concessionaire which manages the N4, the upgrading of the Karino intersection to an interchange is deemed a next phase as part of the original Nelspruit Northern Ring Road project completed in 2010.
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The interchange is the most important link between Mbombela and KaNyamazane and will provide a direct link from the R514 to the N4. The R514 also provides access to the Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport.
The N4 and R514 intersection had become a nightmare in handling high traffic volumes, especially during peak hours. It also became notorious for the severity of its accidents over the years.
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“In considering the strategic importance of this intersection, the number and growth in traffic volumes due to high commuter traffic and the traffic safety record, it was recommended that this intersection be upgraded to a grade separated interchange under the concession contract,” said Van Niekerk.
Sanral’s Northern Region manager, Progress Hlahla said local SMMEs have also benefited from this project, across various aspects of the value chain.
“Some SMMEs are currently employed. There will still be more opportunities for them to get involved,” he said.
A total of 54 local subcontractors and over 300 local community members are currently employed on site.
