To strengthen oversight and community access, Sanral is preparing to open a provincial office in Bloemfontein. This follows the transfer of more than 1,200 kilometres of provincial roads into Sanral’s network.

With nearly R4 billion allocated to the N1, and an additional R500 million directed toward routine maintenance in key agricultural towns. These projects are expected to stimulate local economies, enhance mobility, and significantly expand opportunities for small businesses and job seekers over the next three years.

An additional 1,478 kilometres were transferred over the past two financial years, and 674 more roads, as published in the Government Gazette 51639, are now under Sanral’s care.

“This will allow us to enhance our stakeholder engagement efforts within the province, and will make Sanral more accessible to local communities, said Free State Sanral head Marlize Nel-Verwey.

“The construction phases of two new construction-type projects commenced on the N1, Section 16, which is between Bloemfontein and Winburg. The projects have a duration of 36 and 42 months each and are expected to be completed in 2028.”

Sanral always ensures local communities, including women, the youth, people with disabilities, and military veterans, play a meaningful role and benefit from our projects, she said.

Upgrades

Alongside major N1 upgrades, Sanral has initiated a R500 million emergency routine road maintenance project in Jacobsdal, Koffiefontein, Trompsburg, and Jagersfontein. 

The works include pothole repair, drainage cleaning, slope stabilisation, vegetation control, and road markings, critical interventions in areas central to the Free State’s agricultural economy.

“Maintaining these routes is vital for farmers and rural communities transporting goods to market,” said project manager Sipho Khoza. “Upgrading these corridors will significantly boost the region’s economy and road safety.”

The road agency has also invested R257 million in the rehabilitation of an 18-kilometre stretch of the N8 national route between Thaba Nchu and Tweespruit. Since construction began, the project has generated 108 jobs for residents, providing much-needed employment in the region.

• Have a news tip to share? Phone or whatsapp the OFM News Hotline: 066 487 1427.

OFM News/Zenande Mpame dg