The deteriorating state of the R74, which is one of the main routes to the Drakensberg, is said to be hampering growth in both the tourism and agricultural sector.
Declared a World Heritage Site, the Drakensberg Mountain is a jewel in the Okhahlamba treasure trove.
The picturesque landscape, country setting, quaint shops, abundance of accommodation and assortment of activities make it a sought-after tourist destination, with dozens of local and international visitors choosing it as a holiday venue.
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However, accessing these services may be a ‘bumpy ride’.
Portfolio Committee on Transport visits
After many years of attempting to get help from government to fix up the poor R74 road, DA councillor Thys Janse van Rensburg was finally rewarded with a meeting from parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Transport on April 22.
Led by acting chairperson of the committee, Lawrence McDonald, 11 members were part of an oversight visit of the R74 to witness firsthand the extent of the damage, which includes a number of sinkholes.
A collapsed bridge has also resulted in the closure of the R74 near Mazizini in Bergville.
“The situation is worrisome”
Mr McDonald said the roads in the Bergville area have become a serious danger and that the committee wouldn’t be surprised if a major accident is reported.
“The situation is worrisome, especially considering that the impact is not only about the roads but has brought lives to a standstill. Businesses are closing,” he said.
He added that it was unfortunate that accounting officers and political heads did not show up to answer questions posed by the committee.
“As a result, the committee shall consider recommending in its report that these officials be summoned to parliament on their own pockets.”
The committee held two community meetings (in Mazizini and Winterton), where it wanted to understand the impact of the destruction of these roads.
“Government must spare no effort in trying to help these affected communities. It is so sad when people of KwaZulu- Natal see developments elsewhere and are still asking: ‘What about us?’,” Mr McDonald said.
Crumbling state of the roads
Mr Janse van Rensburg is grateful for the visit, which was prompted by a petition that garnered hundreds of signatures.
“Okhahlamba’s economy is driven by tourism and agriculture, and both sectors are suffering losses due to the crumbling state of the roads. This prevents growth that creates jobs. The Portfolio Committee will now investigate the spending of R258 million during the last financial year on road maintenance in Okhahlamba and make further recommendations to the House. It was also revealed on the day that the vital arterial R74 road will be transferred from the KZN Department of Transport to SANRAL for national upkeep as soon as KZN Premier Sihle Zikalala approves it,” commented Janse van Rensburg.
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