Contractor seemingly abandons Blysteel roadworks project
A contractor was appointed, but progress has been slow, according to farmers who regularly use the road with a recent site visit showing that the contractor is yet to return.
POLOKWANE –Â The D688 Bylsteel Road off Soetdorings Road has become another example of mismanagement in the use of public funds. Motorists were initially pleased when Roads Agency Limpopo (RAL) allocated R19m to upgrade and maintain the road, which was in dire need of repair.
A contractor was appointed, but progress has been slow, according to farmers who regularly use the road.
Impatient drivers added to the challenges by using the section under construction, as noted by RAL spokesperson Luyanda Sithole.
Concerns were raised by road users about the quality of work being done, however, RAL assured the public that the project is ongoing and will meet the required standards.
A site visit over a month ago, however, revealed that the contractor appeared to have abandoned the work without completing it.
Road markings were unfinished, rubble remained on the road reserves, and only part of the road was resurfaced, with some potholes poorly filled.
RAL responded, explaining that the problematic section is part of a larger 7.8km project, with 1.88km requiring extensive rehabilitation.
They assured that the contractor had not left permanently and would return after a scheduled break. The remaining road markings, they said, would be done once the rehabilitation was complete.
Despite these assurances, a recent site visit showed that the contractor is yet to return.
A written request to RAL for clarification on the situation went unanswered, and no confirmation has been provided regarding the payments made to the contractor or the quality of the work completed so far.
RAL continues to avoid addressing these concerns publicly.
