AfriForum has called for urgent intervention on the deteriorating condition of the R33 and incomplete roadworks near Paulpietersburg, warning that the ongoing problems are placing motorists at risk and hurting the economy of northern KwaZulu-Natal.

Formal concerns raised with transport authorities

The concerns were raised in a formal letter sent to Transport Minister Barbara Creecy and KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport Siboniso Duma by Eugene van Aswegen on Wednesday.

Motorists face worsening road conditions

According to Van Aswegen, the condition of the R33 between Piet Retief, Paulpietersburg, Vryheid and surrounding areas has worsened significantly over time, with potholes, damaged road surfaces and incomplete construction work creating daily challenges for road users.

“The R33 is one of the main routes into northern KwaZulu-Natal and it has reached a stage where motorists are constantly forced to dodge potholes and drive on dangerous sections of road,” said Van Aswegen. “Residents, farmers, transport operators and tourists all rely on this route, yet it appears to have been neglected for years.”

Incomplete roadworks remain major concern

One of the main concerns highlighted by AfriForum is the incomplete road construction project near Paulpietersburg, where work has allegedly stood still for close to two years. Motorists are currently diverted onto a gravel road, which becomes increasingly difficult to use during rainy conditions.

Van Aswegen said heavy trucks regularly damage the temporary gravel detour, leaving sections nearly impassable at times.

“This is not only frustrating for motorists, but also dangerous. Emergency services, businesses and school transport all make use of this route. During wet weather, conditions become extremely poor and vehicles can easily be damaged,” he added.

Economic impact felt across smaller towns

AfriForum also raised concerns about the economic impact the deteriorating roads are having on smaller towns such as Vryheid, Paulpietersburg, Louwsburg and Dundee. The organisation believes poor infrastructure discourages tourism, increases transport and logistics costs, and negatively affects local businesses and farming communities already under financial pressure.

Questions raised over unused road signage

Another issue mentioned in the letter is the alleged lack of use of road sign infrastructure at the Department of Transport depot in Vryheid. According to AfriForum, road sign boards have reportedly been stored at the depot for several years while some roads in the region remain without adequate signage.

Van Aswegen said communities in northern KwaZulu-Natal deserve safe and properly maintained roads.

“We are asking the Department of Transport to urgently intervene before the situation deteriorates even further. Roads are critical to economic growth and public safety, and residents cannot continue to travel under these conditions,” he said.

AfriForum requests urgent intervention

AfriForum has requested an investigation into the condition of the R33, urgent completion of the roadworks near Paulpietersburg, repairs to potholes and damaged road surfaces, and improved communication from authorities regarding timelines for repairs and infrastructure projects.

Questions were sent to the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport prior to publication, but no feedback had been received at the time of going to print. However, on Thursday, the Minister of Transport’s office confirmed that it had acknowledged receipt of AfriForum’s correspondence and said the matter would be directed to the relevant officials for attention.

The news provided to you in this link comes to you from the editorial staff of the Vryheid Herald, a sold newspaper distributed in the Vryheid area.