The Portfolio Committee on Public Works, Roads and Transport, led by Chairperson Sonto Malepeng, conducted a follow-up oversight visit on Thursday, 14 May, to assess progress on the Road D481 upgrade project between Mooiplaas and Ekulindeni.
Malepeng was accompanied by committee members Thoko Mashiane, Stephens Sekoakoa, and Trudie Grove Morgan.
The Chairperson said the purpose of the visit was to evaluate progress made since the previous oversight engagement and to ensure that commitments made by contractors and stakeholders are being implemented.
The committee revisited four key issues previously raised.
These included improvements to the quality of reporting, which were noted as achieved, and the appointment of key personnel such as a contract manager and safety officer, which has only been partially addressed.
However, concerns remained regarding the absence of a dedicated materials laboratory, with reliance still placed on external services from Mbombela.
Challenges linked to the steering committee’s effectiveness were also highlighted.
The 7.2-kilometre road project, which began on 28 April 2022, was awarded at a value of R110, 339,061.03.
It has since suffered multiple delays due to community disruptions, business forum protests, adverse weather conditions, and additional works caused by difficult underground conditions.
A further R33, 242,700.00 has been incurred through Contract Price Adjustments.
The Community Liaison Officer (CLO) reported partial progress, including some sections already being tarred and the appointment of additional personnel.
However, outstanding payments to a terminated contractor and unpaid subcontractors were flagged as major obstacles affecting work continuity.
Committee members expressed dissatisfaction with the overall pace of the project and absence of the contractor during the engagement, describing it as unacceptable.
They further instructed that the contractor be summoned to appear before the committee in Mbombela to account for delays and alleged non-performance.
The committee also called on the department to strengthen oversight mechanisms and improve contractor monitoring to prevent repeated project failures and prolonged community inconvenience.
A written progress report was requested, addressing all outstanding concerns.
