The Dundee/Vryheid road, dubbed by local motorists as the ‘Hell Run’, is finally getting an upgrade. Rehabilitation on the R33 has started, with ‘stop and go’ signs in place.
Over the years, a lack of proper maintenance due to apparent budgetary constraints had seen the 70km journey between the two towns turn into a nightmare drive.
Craters and sunken sections made driving hazardous for the many who commute daily for work between Dundee and Vryheid. Night-time driving was especially perilous.
Previously, local farmers and community members filled in some of the ruts with sand. The more entrepreneurial-spirited of these workers would then stand at the side of the road, hoping to get a ‘reward’ from passing motorists.
Some owners of transport companies told the Courier that they had little choice but to use the route for business purposes, but considered taking the Newcastle/Utrecht route – which adds about 100km to the trip and increases input costs.
However, hopes are high that the upgrades will make that journey a lot smoother.
Some motorists (who spoke to the Courier) commented that the highlighting of their concerns in the newspaper had ‘probably forced the new provincial government to finally give the go-ahead for the repairs to be carried out’.
The Courier had reached out numerous times to the KZN Department of Transport to get comment on when (and if) repairs would be done, but to no avail.
Asked for his response to the news, Cllr Naresh Gopie said he is elated. Gopie has fought for over two years to get the department to fix the route (while stressing that Endumeni Municipality had no ‘competency’ over roads under the KZN Transport Department).
“After a long and challenging journey, we are pleased to announce that the road between Dundee and Vryheid has been approved for rehabilitation. This vital route, long riddled with craters, has posed significant risks to motorists and has unfortunately claimed many innocent lives over the years,” he told the Courier.
He said that he and others had responded to the publicity given to the road to ensure that the R33 was prioritised through the conducting of in-loco inspections and oversight to ensure the safety and usability of this critical infrastructure.
“The green light for rehabilitation comes as a much-needed relief for commuters, promising to reduce travel time and enhance safety on this essential corridor.
“The Government of National Unity is committed to the betterment of our country and the well-being of our citizens.
“Regular maintenance of our infrastructure is paramount to ensuring the safety and security of our people.
“We recognise that corruption has had a detrimental impact on our economy and infrastructure development.
“However, the Government of National Unity is determined to protect the interests of our nation and deliver us from this pervasive issue.
“We look forward to seeing the positive changes this rehabilitation will bring and remain dedicated to fostering a safer, more efficient transportation network for all.”
Motorists are urged to be cautious when using the route and to be mindful of machinery and workers who are completing the upgrade.
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