Gauteng: Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport, Kedibone Diale-Tlabela, has strongly condemned the destruction and vandalism of public road infrastructure, labeling it a criminal offence. This reaction follows the recent acts of vandalism along the R550 Heidelberg-Alberton route near Zonkizizwe and Palm Ridge in the City of Ekurhuleni, which occurred during ongoing service delivery protests. Community members participating in the protests have deliberately damaged sections of the road, leading to its closure. According to South African Government News Agency, the MEC has urged communities to desist from such actions, emphasizing that damage, theft, and vandalism of road infrastructure are criminal offences under the Gauteng Transport Infrastructure Act (2001). The Act specifies that no individual or institution, including state organs, may damage provincial roads or transport infrastructure without authorization. The MEC highlighted that while peaceful protest is a constitutional right, the Department of Roads and Transport condemns these acts as reckless and unlawful, as they endanger lives, damage essential infrastructure, and disrupt economic activities. The destruction, as defined under Section 52 (d) of the Act, not only poses a security risk but also interferes with the movement of goods, emergency services, public transport operations, and broader economic activity. It also imposes a financial burden on the province due to costly repairs and restoration. The MEC noted that the ramifications of such vandalism extend to all commuters, motorists, and communities reliant on safe roads and public transport systems. The department advises motorists to avoid the R550 Heidelberg-Alberton route until further notice and recommends using alternative routes. The MEC has called for peaceful and lawful engagement between protestors and government structures to address grievances without resorting to damaging public infrastructure. She also stressed the importance of collaboration among the department, communities, law e nforcement, and stakeholders to identify and hold accountable those responsible for the vandalism. Maintenance teams have been directed to secure the affected area, assess the damage, and commence restoration work to ensure safe travel can resume.