Direct route

Almost ZAR3 billion is being invested to improve road infrastructure in the northern Free State, in South Africa.

Moneyweb reports that the South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL), a state-owned entity, has set aside ZAR2.7 billion to upgrade roads in the Lejweleputswa District Municipality, which is based in the town of Welkom.

Included in the improvements is an upgrade to the N1 between Scottland and Winburg South and the stretch from Zandkraal to Scottland. Routine maintenance will also be carried out on the R730 and R34 between Winburg and Ventersburg.

About 30% of the project’s expenditure will be reserved for local SMMEs, reported SANRAL regional project manager Hugh Brooks.

‘On Scottland to Winburg South improvements, the existing road will be upgraded and rehabilitated to form the new southbound carriageway of the new dual carriageway freeway. A completely new northbound carriageway will be constructed on the west side of the existing road,’ Brooks said.