TZANEEN – Heavy vehicles will continue using George’s Valley Road during its upcoming rehabilitation, as they are not permitted to use the Magoebaskloof Pass R71 route, according to the Limpopo Department of Public Works, Roads and Infrastructure.

Department spokesperson Emmanuel Mongwe said truck operators and construction teams would work together to ensure traffic continues flowing while repairs are underway on the D548 George’s Valley Road.

“Vehicles will be guided through sections of the road that have not yet been affected by construction activities,” said Mongwe.

“This will allow the project to proceed while maintaining access for freight transport and other road users.”

No completion date yet

He added that while no completion date could be confirmed at this stage, the project has been prioritised and must be completed as quickly as possible following instructions from department MEC Ernest Rachoene.

Farming community welcomes upgrade

The rehabilitation project has been widely welcomed by the local farming community, particularly Agri Letaba, which has spent more than a decade advocating for upgrades to the road.

CEO Naomi Excell described the appointment of three contractors to repair the road as a positive and significant step for both farmers and road users.

“This is an encouraging development for the farming community and the broader public who rely on this route daily,” she said.

Excell noted that Agri Letaba and local farmers have raised concerns about the road’s poor condition with authorities for the past 11 years.

She added that the organisation is grateful to Rachoene and the department for addressing their concerns and taking action.

Safety is the main driver

While the road plays an important role in supporting agricultural activity and the local economy, Excell stressed that safety remains the most important reason for the upgrade.

“The road is used daily by school buses, community members, emergency services, farm workers and approximately 1,800 vehicles. Its poor condition has posed a serious risk to motorists and pedestrians alike,” she said.

Vital route for agriculture

The road is also a vital transport route for the agricultural sector. Large quantities of fresh fruit and vegetables destined for local and international markets are transported along the route.

According to Excell, poor road conditions can affect the quality of produce during transportation, resulting in financial losses for farmers and impacting export standards.

Residents relieved after years of waiting

George’s Valley resident Rona McGaffin said the community was relieved to finally see progress after years of campaigning for the road’s rehabilitation.

“Although only approximately 9km will be upgraded, there are talks of an extra 1km upgrade in front of Diggersrest and hopefully another 3km at the start of the George’s Valley Road coming from town,” she said.