The Machadodorp Interchange is now officially opened

The much-anticipated Machadodorp Interchange has officially opened.

The junction was officially launched on September 2 by the MEC for public works, roads and transport, Mohita Latchminarain, the executive mayor of Emakhazeni, Cllr TD Ngwenya, and TRAC’s CEO, Alex van Niekerk.

In a statement by TRAC, it said this significant road construction project between the two Mpumalanga towns, was undertaken by Wilson Bayly Holmes-Ovcon and Motheo Construction Joint Venture (WBHO/Motheo).

“The project comprises the rehabilitation and construction of an additional lane per direction to convert this 30-kilometre section of the N4 into a four-lane undivided road,” said TRAC.

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Van Niekerk said the R400-million upgrade was done to accommodate the traffic growth experienced over the years between Emakhazeni and the Montrose Intersection near Mbombela.

He said the increase in traffic volumes saw the need to construct the interchange that offers a safer entry/exit point to and from Machadodorp and the R36.

“The official opening of this infrastructure marks a milestone for the Belfast-Machado upgrade project as well as for the Maputo Corridor and TRAC as a whole,” said Van Niekerk.

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“The at-grade intersection will now be permanently closed, and road users can only enter and exit the town of Machadodorp via the safer on- and off-ramps that form part of the interchange.”

Van Niekerk reminded road users that although the interchange is fully functional, the roadworks between Emakhazeni and Machadodorp are not concluded and will continue for several months.

“We are continuing with the other elements of the upgrade and rehabilitation. The entire project is expected to be completed early next year. We want to thank the public for their cooperation during this road construction project and thank them for their patience and understanding.

“This upgrade, including this magnificent structure that we opened today, is evidence that TRAC is committed to keeping the Maputo Corridor in pristine condition and on par with world standards,” he said