Upgrades on R57 set to commence

The Gauteng MEC for Transport and Logistics, Kedibone Diale-Tlabela, has officially turned the sod, marking the beginning of upgrades on the P122/1 (R57) Road in Irene in the City of Tshwane. The includes the upgrade of the P122 single carriageway, spanning approximately 9.4km from Olifantsfontein to Solomon Mahlangu Drive. During the rehabilitation launch on Thursday, Diale-Tlabela said the upgrades that the department is undertaking will not only benefit the people of Gauteng in terms of construction. 'The project will also assist in transforming the lives of the people who reside in Wards 47, 83, 71, 91, and 65, which are the communities that will be affected by the rehabilitation works,' she said. The scope of work in this project involves the reconstruction of the existing road, construction of paved shoulders, upgrading of intersections along the route, and widening the existing cross-section with broader traffic lanes. "To ensure fairness and inclusivity, we will prioritise the affected municipal wards when procuring services, giving local small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) the chance to actively participate in this transformative initiative. 'If capable service providers cannot be found within these communities, SMMEs from outside the wards, but within the provincial boundary, will also be considered,' the MEC said. The project also saw three Community Liaison Officers (CLOs) from the affected wards being appointed to ensure that the project is delivered within the allocated time and that the voice of the community is heard throughout the delivery stages of the project. The MEC called on communities to ensure that the works continue uninterrupted and avoid any actions that may impede the speedy delivery of the project. 'This project will undoubtedly bring about significant changes but it is crucial for all of us to ensure its proper care. In case of grievances against any party involved in the works, we must avoid halting or interrupting the project rollout programme,' said Diale-Tlabela . Source: South African Government News Agency