Improvements to Long Tom Pass on the cards

In a significant development for Mpumalanga’s infrastructure, Sanral has confirmed that the R37, which runs through the Long Tom Pass, will be one of its upcoming projects in this province.

The agency issued a press release published on November 7 confirming the rehabilitation of this road.

Read more: Survivors tell of horror of Long Tom Pass bus accident

The project will involve a comprehensive upgrade, rehabilitation and widening of a 44km stretch of this scenic and vital roadway that connects the towns of Lydenburg, Sabie and Mbombela.

This large-scale upgrade, set to cost an estimated R400m, will not only improve safety and durability in the Long Tom Pass, but also enhance the travel experience for both locals and tourists traversing the route.

Due to the challenging terrain and detailed construction work involved, Sanral expects the project to take approximately 30 months to complete.

While the construction is under way, Sanral has assured motorists that traffic flow on the R37 will be maintained with the implementation of stop-go traffic control systems along the route.

These controls will be essential for ensuring continued access, but the agency has cautioned that drivers should expect delays. Travellers are advised to plan ahead and allow for extra travel time during the construction period.

“The R37 is a key national road that cuts across Polokwane in Limpopo and Mbombela in Mpumalanga via Burgersfort and Lydenburg. With Limpopo and Mpumalanga being rich in agriculture, successful completion of the R37 project will link agricultural producers to markets and workers to jobs.

These are economic forces vital to any development agenda,” Sanral said in its press release.