PIENAAR – The D1723, also known as Lihawu Road is finally moving forward after years of delays and community frustration.
This comes after the Mpumalanga Department of Public Works, Roads and Transport replaced the initial contractor due to poor performance and failure to meet project timelines. The project, officially handed over in July 2024, was plagued by numerous challenges, leaving residents increasingly concerned about its future.
Locals had previously told Mpumalanga Mirror that the poorly maintained gravel road had become a health hazard, with excessive dust affecting them and potentially leading to long-term health issues. As such, the community staged several protests, voicing frustrations over concerns that the project’s delays would impact local businesses and disrupt daily commuters. The community had demanded accountability and urgent action from those overseeing the project.
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As a result, the department announced that a new contractor has been appointed, and work is underway to restore this vital road.
MEC Thulasizwe Thomo conducted a site visit to monitor and evaluate the progress achieved since the implementation of the acceleration plan.
The purpose of the visit was to assess progress, ensure adherence to the revised schedule, and ensure that the necessary interventions are yielding the desired results.
“The Luphisi Road Project forms part of our critical road infrastructure programme,” Thomo said during the visit. “We remain committed to intensifying monitoring and enforcing strict compliance with quality standards and project deadlines until completion.”
