Marlueng road repairs to boost tourism after January floods
The R40 and Mica roads in Maruleng are being rebuilt after January floods, with Transport Minister Barbara Creecy saying substantial reconstruction is needed.
HOEDSPRUIT – The rehabilitation of the R40 and Mica roads is expected to significantly improve transport, tourism and economic activity in the Maruleng Local Municipality following extensive damage caused by the January 2026 floods.
Transport Minister Barbara Creecy recently conducted an oversight visit to inspect flood damage on the R40 Section 7 near Phalaborwa and the R531 Section 2 (Mica Road) in Hoedspruit. She was joined by Maruleng Mayor Tsheko Musolwa, Ba-Phalaborwa Mayor Miriam Malatji, Mopani District Municipality MMC Lucky Mohlala, as well as councillors and senior government officials.
Also participating in the inspection were Sanral CEO Reginald Demana, Roads Agency Limpopo (RAL) CEO Makhitha Chesane, and representatives from Limpopo’s public works, roads and infrastructure department.
Substantial reconstruction needed
During the inspection, Creecy acknowledged that the extent of the flood damage on sections of the R40 and Mica roads would require substantial reconstruction rather than routine repairs.
Photos: MLM Facebook group.
The R40 is a key regional route linking Hoedspruit, Mica and Phalaborwa, while the Mica Road provides access to the Orpen Gate of the Kruger National Park and numerous private game reserves, lodges and tourism establishments. The roads also serve farmers, freight operators, emergency services and thousands of daily commuters.
An investment in Maruleng’s economic future
Musolwa welcomed the government’s commitment to rehabilitating the affected roads, describing the project as an important investment in Maruleng’s economic future.
“Maruleng is home to some of South Africa’s premier tourism destinations. Reliable and well-maintained roads are essential for ensuring that visitors can safely and conveniently access our game reserves, lodges and other tourist attractions. This investment will strengthen our local economy and support job creation through tourism,” he said.
More than just mobility
He added that the rehabilitation project extends beyond restoring damaged infrastructure.
“Improved roads are not only about mobility. They unlock economic opportunities, stimulate tourism growth and improve the quality of life of our communities by providing safer and more efficient transport networks.”
