The City of Mbombela (CoM) has finally started resurfacing a high-traffic section of Andrew Street near City Centre. The CoM has appointed a contractor to repair the road from the R40 eastbound to De Vaal Street as part of its ongoing maintenance programme.

This has brought relief to hundreds of commuters and local businesses.

Joseph Ngala, the CoM’s spokesperson, said these repairs are in response to the public outcry regarding the poor condition of that stretch of road.

“We are aware that the road is one of the busiest in town, as it leads to the taxi rank and the CBD. That section needs special attention, just like other parts of this road, which will also be attended to. The contractor is expected to finish the job by Friday, weather permitting,” he said.

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The resurfacing is expected to ensure safer travel and more reliable access to Mbombela’s CBD.

The intervention has been widely welcomed by the community, particularly transport operators.

Earnest Sibiya, a taxi operator, expressed his relief, saying it had been a major challenge to drive on that section of the road.

“Despite the potholes being repaired, they kept coming back. As I drive on this road every day, I appreciate what the municipality has done – it was about time.”

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Resident Adrian Joubert echoed Sibiya’s sentiment, highlighting the safety risks posed by the damaged asphalt, especially with the summer rainy season approaching.

“There have been some accidents caused when motorists tried to swerve to avoid the potholes. In some instances, drivers even moved into oncoming traffic. I’m happy the road is finally getting the attention it needs,” Joubert said.

Businesses in the area have also welcomed the resealing. Their operations were often negatively affected by the road’s hazardous state.