SANRAL: N11 and R34 (Memel Road) upgrades moving forward

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19-09-2024
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New Castillian News
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The deteriorating state of road infrastructure continues to raise serious concerns for thousands of Newcastillians, particularly when it comes to the N11 and the R34, also known as the Memel Road. Thankfully, the South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL) has begun tackling these issues head-on with substantial corrective projects aimed at improving these heavily travelled routes. But with such essential roadways under construction, many are asking: how far along is the progress?

In March 2024, Newcastillian News reported that SANRAL embarked on a major 40-month project to enhance the N11, which connects Ladysmith South and the Nkunzi River.

This project involves widening the road and adding much-needed climbing lanes in critical areas to ease the growing traffic volumes. As SANRAL pointed out, traffic has significantly increased along this route, making the upgrades vital to improve overall flow and safety once completed.

The project is divided into two key phases. In February 2023, Phase 1 was awarded to Raubex Construction (Pty) Ltd, with a contract worth R864,888,000 (inclusive of VAT). This phase focuses on the stretch between Ladysmith and Elandslaagte and officially began in March 2023. It is expected to wrap up by late 2026. The contractor for Phase 2, covering the Elandslaagte to Nkunzi River section, was still being procured at the time.

As of now, work on Phase 1 is steadily progressing despite some earlier challenges, such as work stoppages in April 2024 which saw slight delays in the temporary road deviations to reroute traffic.

SANRAL confirmed that roadworks are now fully underway, with significant advancements being made. SANRAL commented, “The contractor is busy with the roadworks for the permanent road alignment, which will improve safety, as traffic has now been diverted to the temporary road.”

While the construction efforts on the N11 are making strides, SANRAL has stated that it’s still too early to give specific feedback on the final condition of the road. However, once the work is complete, SANRAL pointed out that motorists will be notified when the upgraded road is officially safe for use.

Regarding Phase 2, which was initially expected to start in the first half of 2024, SANRAL confirmed that the procurement process is now well underway. The tender for the contractor was sent out, and due to queries from interested parties, the closing date was extended to 13 September 2024. Once the queries have been addressed, the selection process will begin, and SANRAL anticipates appointing a contractor before the year ends. While this has caused a slight delay, the roadworks for Phase 2 should still begin soon, even if they take a little longer than initially anticipated.

Turning to the R34, a route notorious for its poor condition.

SANRAL reported that work is also on track here, with the first phase of construction expected to be completed by May 2026. With traffic now diverted, SANRAL is currently focused on constructing the permanent road, which is set to bring much-needed relief to motorists who have been navigating this troublesome route.

Furthermore, the R34 has long been a point of contention for Newcastillians, with many viewing its designation as a national route in October 2023 as a turning point. This official recognition allowed SANRAL to take on the task of significantly improving the road’s safety and functionality. Work on the R34 officially began in February 2023, with a project value of R211 million. The project also spans 108 km.

Since the start of the project, SANRAL stated that it had made commendable progress. They have addressed key safety issues, filled potholes and made improvements to drainage, guardrails, and tree removal. Additional tasks, such as pavement repairs, rut filling, shoulder repairs, and new road markings, are still in the pipeline and will be completed within the contract’s duration.

While these efforts are encouraging, road conditions continue to present challenges, particularly for emergency personnel.

Charles Steyn of Magenta Emergency Medical Services shared his insights into the situation. “The N11 is not that bad, but there are still sections along Amajuba Pass where the tar melts, making the road unsafe. The roadworks, while necessary, also make the roads shaky, which impacts patients being transported by ambulances.”

He further explained that while progress is being made, much more work is still needed to ensure the roads are genuinely safe for all users.

Regarding the R34, Steyn noted, “The road is also very shaky, making it extremely uncomfortable for patients. However, there has been improvement. Previously, transporting a patient to Vrede from Newcastle would take up to an hour and a half, but it now takes only an hour. That said, the road will continue to be problematic unless they redo the entire stretch.”

Despite these challenges, there is hope on the horizon. Newcastle Municipality’s Executive Council Member, Cllr Faizel Cassim, remains optimistic about the long-term benefits these roadworks will bring. He believes the upgrades will significantly enhance both Newcastle and the national routes for all travellers. “Right now, there are major blockages in traffic flow, particularly with the high volume of trucks using the N11. But with the addition of extra lanes and the improvements being made, traffic flow will be much smoother. People will be able to reach their destinations on time, and safer road conditions will be in place,” Cllr Cassim remarked.

Agreeing with Cllr Cassim that the additional lanes would help enhance traffic flow, Newcastle Municipality’s Bebsie Cronje added, “There have been a lot of accidents along the N11, and with the work now underway to repair the condition of the road, the safer road conditions will be beneficial to Newcastle residents.”

Addressing the R34, a road that has posed problems for years, Cllr Cassim explained how its ongoing construction will not only improve road safety but also enhance the image of Newcastle. “The R34 has been responsible for damaging multiple vehicles and endangering lives. But now, with the construction in full swing, we’ll see far fewer incidents, and it will also help improve Newcastle’s image, especially since the R34 serves as an entrance to the town,” he said.

Cllr Cronje agreed, noting that travelling along the R34 had been a nightmare. Now with the roadworks gaining traction, she felt local motorists from other towns would be more secure travelling along the road once the work was completed.

As the roadworks progress, SANRAL has urged motorists to take heed of the temporary road signs and drive with caution. Motorists are advised to reduce their speed and allow for additional travel time to accommodate potential delays caused by the ongoing construction.

These road projects offer a promising future for Newcastle’s infrastructure, bringing much-needed improvements to routes that have long caused headaches for residents and commuters alike. With the upgrades in full force, a safer, smoother travel experience lies ahead for Newcastillians and visitors.