Motorists travelling through Rocky Drift can breathe a sigh of relief after the Sanral repaired a hazardous dip on the R40.

The African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP) welcomed the repairs, saying the intervention came after numerous complaints from residents and road users who feared the damaged section posed a serious risk to public safety.

Deep depression creates night hazard

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According to ACDP Mpumalanga provincial leader Cllr Suzette Mouton, the road surface had been deteriorating for months, creating a deep depression that became particularly dangerous at night when motorists struggled to see it. The party said the damaged section also posed a risk to drivers travelling at speed, increasing the likelihood of vehicle damage, loss of control and serious accidents.

Mouton said she acted swiftly after receiving complaints from concerned residents and escalated the matter to Sanral.

“Our roads should never be a threat to the lives of our citizens,” said Mouton. “When the community raised the alarm about the R40, we knew we had to act immediately before a tragedy occurred. We are incredibly pleased that our efforts have resulted in a safer commute for everyone travelling through Rocky Drift.”

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The party also thanked Sanral for responding to the concerns and carrying out the repairs.

Sanral confirms scheduled maintenance complete

Sanral spokesperson Lwando Madonsela confirmed that the repairs were undertaken after complaints from motorists highlighted the safety risk.

“It was in our plans to ensure that the roads managed by us are maintained to a good standard and remain safe for road users,” said Madonsela. “The road in question had already been scheduled for repairs, and the work has now been completed.”

He added that motorists’ complaints reinforced the urgency of the project as the damaged section was compromising the safety of road users.