More than 320 workers have been recruited to help repair potholes on the P54 and R34 in the Nquthu and Nkande areas as part of a KwaZulu-Natal road maintenance drive.

KwaZulu-Natal Transport and Human Settlements MEC Siboniso Duma launched the initiative, which targets damaged sections of the R34 linking Vryheid, Nquthu, Newcastle and Mpumalanga, as well as the 38.8km P54 connecting Blood River and Nquthu.

Duma said the department had opted to employ local workers to accelerate repairs rather than rely solely on contractors.

“We have declared potholes public enemy number one,” he said.

Repairs target water damage

The work includes patching damaged road surfaces, cleaning drainage systems, clearing overgrown verges and sealing cracks to prevent further water damage.

According to an assessment by departmental engineers, heavy rainfall and traffic have contributed to the deterioration of the roads. Water entering through unsealed cracks has accelerated damage to the road surfaces.

Duma said the repairs formed part of the reconfiguration of the department’s #NenzaniLaEzweni operation, which would eventually be extended across the province.

The initiative is expected to create more than 300 job opportunities, according to Duma.

“Our road network must drive socio-economic development and improve the quality of life of all citizens,” he said.