It is always an issue when travelling on South African roads. The total disregard to the good and proper maintenance of roads is well-nigh non-existent. This is such a sad state of affairs, but some roads have seen no maintenance in 30 years! The couple of roads that are ‘hanging in’ are testament to the good workmanship of construction/maintenance operations in the past. But no longer.
The frustration of the citizens of this wonderful country is at boiling point. Some roads are downright dangerous and in some cases are nothing short of death traps – but seemingly the local councils or road maintenance operations (if they exist) do not seem to care less.
Such has been the frustration of the residents in and around Hoedspruit – and with a co-ordinated effort they actioned a repair program. Driven by the Ward 1 Committee, Christine du Preez, Chris Hanekom, Farmwatch and other community member, a team of locals got to work on the stretch of road between Hoedspruit and Kampersrus. On this stretch some 120 potholes were counted!
The residents swung into action on Tuesday the 21st March 2023 – Human Rights Day. Some might even argue that it is a right of a citizen in South Africa to have decent roads! That’s another story.
The first part to be repaired was between Agri Park and the Moria T-junction. A total of 40, 25kg bags of tar (one ton of tar!), were used to repair a number of potholes on this section. The pictures do little justice to the time and effort of the volunteers and supporters in getting the job done!
Jahara Rehab Centre were kind enough to send a team to help, as they had some material left from a recent similar exercise in which they were involved. Abdul from Abdul’s Shop donated cold drinks to the volunteers to quench their thirst on the hot day.
There are still some potholes to repair, and this gritty group of volunteers will once again take to the road on the morning of Wednesday 28th March from08:00 to 13:00, to complete the task and fill the balance of the potholes.
This effort has only been possible through the donations of so many people and organisations – to which thanks must be extended.
Anyone wanting to contribute should consider joining the Hoedspruit Chamber/Sakekamer. The fees start at R50.00 per month for residents, and R200.00 per month for businesses. This membership contribution assists with projects like this, and many others. Help is appreciated in terms of skills, labour, transport and any other worthy assistance. Please contact Ward 1 Councillor, Christine du Preez (083 300 2933) to co-ordinate this. Any financial donations can be made to the Hoedspruit Chambers, FNB, 63040356148 with reference of your name and description of payment or donation. Email the POP to hoedspruitcs@gmail.com.
