Central SA
Free State roads crisis under spotlight despite billion-rand repair plan─── ZENANDE MPAME 16:08 Wed, 29 Apr 2026
“The Free State should be a key economic corridor, but instead it has become known as the province of potholes.”
DA Free State spokesperson on roads and transport David van Vuuren was reacting to the provincial government’s R1.4bn road maintenance plan set to be rolled out in the 2026/27 financial year. It forms part of efforts to rehabilitate the province’s deteriorating road network and stimulate economic growth.
Delivering his department’s budget speech in Phuthaditjhaba, community safety, roads, and transport MEC Jabu Mbalula said the allocation forms part of a broader R3.58bn departmental budget aimed at improving service delivery across roads, transport, and community safety.
The maintenance plan will see continued work on key routes, including roads in Thaba Nchu, Qwaqwa, and the Opperman access road, as well as major corridors such as the Kroonstad to Steynsrus, Senekal to Rosendal, Tweespruit to Excelsior, and Koppies to Sasolburg roads. Repairs are also planned for the damaged R711 between Fouriesburg and Clarens.
“Our approach this year was to reflect on the progress we have made on previously announced projects while introducing new ones for the 2026/27 financial year,” said Mbalula. “(This is) ensuring continuity and accountability in our work.
“Roads take up a significant portion of our budget because they connect people to services and enable economic activity; without reliable roads, growth and opportunity are severely limited.”
Despite these commitments, opposition parties argue that the plan does not go far enough. “The Free State should be a central economic corridor for freight, agriculture, and trade, but instead it has become known as the province of potholes,” said Van Vuuren.
Across the province, roads have deteriorated to the point where residents now drive in fear, businesses reroute at high cost, and essential services are delayed. Communities are tired of excuses; they want safe, well-maintained roads, visible progress, and a government that understands the urgency of fixing this crisis, he said.
FF Plus MPL Armand Cloete described the state of Free State roads as shameful. “The condition of roads in the Free State is not just a technical issue; it is a disgrace that continues to worsen as potholes grow and infrastructure crumbles.”
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