Greg van Noord Democratic Alliance Councillor in the Metro Mangaung in city or Roses Free State said Their goal is to restore safe, reliable infrastructure vital to daily life, local businesses, and long-term economic growth.
Gravel roads across Bloemfontein and the wider Metro are collapsing due to poor maintenance, erosion, potholes, and failed drainage systems. This has disrupted daily commutes, delayed emergency services, and harmed economic activity.
Guesthouses, tourism venues, and local businesses are suffering from reduced access, inconsistent guest arrivals, and slow emergency response times, further straining the economy. Heavy rains and overloaded roads have exacerbated the damage, particularly in areas where heavy trucks use vulnerable routes.
Van Noord said: The municipal response has been inadequate, gravel supply is disrupted, repair equipment is often unusable, and communities are resorting to makeshift fixes using their limited resources.
The DA calls for urgent action:
• Curb wasteful spending and redirect funds to critical road repairs
• Explore public-private partnerships and seek rural road grants
• Restore municipal repair vehicles for faster response
• Regulate heavy-duty truck routes and schedules
• Implement a real-time system for reporting road hazards
Only 2% of the capital budget is allocated to maintenance, far below the 8% national guideline, with just R7.5 million directed to roads. This underinvestment must be addressed immediately to protect livelihoods and restore confidence in municipal services.
He concluded saying they urge the ANC-led Mangaung to act now. Continued inaction worsens the crisis and deepens the hardship for communities and businesses.