Maila: There is no crisis with the Dresden road project

“There is no crisis regarding the Dresden access road project. We can assure the people of Fetakgomo Tubatse, especially those in Dresden, that the project will be completed, and that sufficient funds remain for the outstanding work.”

These were the words of Fetakgomo Tubatse Local Municipality (FTLM) mayor, Eddie Maila, during an unannounced site visit on July 16.

The site manager briefed Maila’s delegation, which included councillors and executive committee members, on progress made and challenges encountered. He reported that the project is 69% complete but noted that recent torrential rains had slowed progress, as sections of the compacted road base were damaged and had to be redone.

Maila dismissed social media speculation that the project had stalled and that the contractor was overpaid.

“The allegations circulating on social media are not a true reflection of what is happening on the ground,” he said.

“I came here to see for myself, and my assurance to local communities is that the project will be completed. Under this administration, we have no history of paying contractors who are behind schedule. If a contractor is behind, expenditure will be aligned with actual progress.”

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He added that disruptions by community members, particularly some SMMEs along the Dresden route, have also hampered progress.

“I was given the mandate to deliver this project to the people, and I intend to do so. I will not succumb to intimidation.”

Maila acknowledged the impact the incomplete road is having on the local community.

“To the contractor, I will be monitoring this project weekly – if not daily. No community member must interfere with the work.”