HOEDSPRUIT – The Limpopo Department of Public Works, Roads and Infrastructure has launched an investigation into claims that road maintenance work has been abandoned on sections of the R531 in the Maruleng Municipality, near Hoedspruit.

Social media images spark probe

The move follows images circulating on social media showing bags of asphalt material apparently left unused, fuelling allegations that repair work on the route has stalled. MEC Tonny Ernest Rachoene has instructed the department’s head to investigate the claims in full.

The road is among those damaged by recent flooding in the area, and Rachoene said the province cannot afford to see materials go to waste while the need for repairs remains urgent.

MEC vows consequences for wrongdoing

Rachoene has directed the department to work jointly with Sanral on the investigation, stressing that the resources involved were bought using taxpayers’ money and that any dumping of materials would not be tolerated.

Should the probe uncover wrongdoing by a contractor or official, he said, consequence management would follow.

Broader commitment to road network

The department, together with Roads Agency Limpopo and Sanral, says it remains committed to keeping the province’s road network drivable, and continues to position itself as the custodian of Limpopo’s roads infrastructure.