Patching the Memel Road’s dark legacy

A new day has dawned for the R34 Memel Road.

Restoration projects have cast a positive light on the route, illuminating the way ahead for a road once shrouded in its dark legacy.

Between Memel and Newcastle at least, the storm has passed.

Almost a year to the date since contractors began an overhaul project on the road, the restored R34 is free of potholes and has residents beaming.

For some, the new R34 is a symbol of the power of community.

For businessman and driving force behind attempts to force the hand of the Free State Government, Johan Pieters, it is the climax of five years of effort.

“It was a team effort, with businesses, individuals and the media ensuring it became a success story.”

Mr Pieters formed part of the Newcastle delegation, alongside Nico Oosthuizen, Matthew Shunmugam, Arthur Zwane and Christo van der Vyver, which flew to Bloemfontein in January last year to illuminate the Head of Police, Roads and Transport, Sandile Msibi as to the situation.

At this meeting, a memorandum bearing over 15 000 signatures was handed to Mr Msibi.

“The meeting was positive, with commitment from Mr Msibi the R34 from the Free State border until Vrede would be rebuilt.”

True to that statement, the second phase of construction on the R34 has begun, primarily to repair the section of road connecting Memel and Vrede.

“We will invite officials to the Free State and KwaZulu-Natal border when the road is fixed, to celebrate the success in all its glory.”

A resident who made use of the road over the weekend, commented on the good work done thus far on ensuring the R34 could hold a candle to other routes in terms of safety.