Funding delays stall critical R709 project in the Free State

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Funding delays stall critical R709 project in the Free State

CHANON LECODEY MERRICKS ONLINE_EDITOR 

The Democratic Alliance (DA) will intensify oversight and continue to engage the Free State Department of Community Safety, Roads and Transport to ensure that the R 709 road rehabilitation project between Tweespruit and Excelsior resumes and is completed without further delay.

Recent oversight confirms that the project has come to a standstill due to depleted funding and the contractor's inability to proceed until the Department makes further payments. The Department and MEC, during a formal Committee meeting, indicated that they are awaiting the release of funds in the new financial year to resume the project. This road project has been delayed amid allegations of corruption made against the current Premier by a former contractor.

This emphasises the importance of appointing contractors who can efficiently and effectively complete infrastructure projects, such as roads. Unlike the previous contractor, the current contractor met the targets before the specified dates.  Unfortunately, they will now have to wait until the next financial year’s budget before work can resume, as only a portion was earmarked for the current financial year.

Infrastructure projects of this importance should not be derailed by avoidable financial mismanagement. Unfortunately, a significant amount of funds and time was wasted due to the first contract, which was awarded under questionable circumstances.

The delay carries serious consequences for residents, farmers and businesses who rely on the R709 as a vital economic artery. The deteriorating condition of the road increases vehicle damage, raises transport costs, and places lives at risk, severely impacting residents who depend on reliable infrastructure for their livelihoods.

The DA will submit formal parliamentary questions, demand a clear payment and construction schedule, and push for strict accountability to ensure that funds are released in the new financial year without delay and that the contractor returns to the site.

The people of the Free State deserve roads that support economic growth and safe mobility, not continued neglect.

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