POLOKWANE – The Polokwane Municipality has announced the temporary closure of parts of Doloriet and Blaauberg streets, key bypasses into the industrial areas of Ladine and Ladanna from Seshego and surrounding regions, for refurbishment purposes.

The work, primarily focused on filling potholes, began on June 3 and is scheduled to be completed by September 19, according to municipal spokesperson Thipa Selala.

He emphasised the importance of the project, stating, “the work is essential to ensure that the streets in the area are safe and in good condition for all”.

Motorists are urged to use alternative routes during the construction period, a move that has sparked dissatisfaction among taxi users and associations who rely on the route daily.

United Nemaungane, chairperson of the Seshego-Polokwane Taxi Association, expressed concerns about potential delays, citing the municipality’s history of lagging behind on road projects, such as the township’s first circle.

He highlighted the need for shorter routes to prevent financial loss, noting that the interim arrangement would incur additional costs for taxi operators.

The industrial area’s roads, many of which are worn out and riddled with large potholes, are crucial for the delivery of bulk goods and services via freight.

Since last year, the municipality has been actively involved in a pothole-filling project. Mayor John Mpe has personally participated in the efforts, working at least once a week in various parts of the municipal jurisdiction.

Recently, the municipality has resorted to filling potholes with sand in certain areas, including Flora Park, Nelson Mandela Drive, and the corner of Fosfaat and Mika Streets.

Despite repeated enquiries over the past month, Selala has not provided a response regarding the reasons behind the unconventional pothole-filling method.