Construction work began last month on phase 1 of the project to upgrade a five-kilometre section of the D3715 road between Madodonga and Tshikhodobo. The project officially commenced in July and is expected to be completed by the end of January 2025.

The Road Agency Limpopo (RAL) has allocated R19 million for the improvement of access roads. The former MEC for Public Works, Nkakareng Rakgoale, and representatives from RAL visited the area on 9 February to hand over the site to the contractor. The local community was assured that the rehabilitation of the D3715 road would start in March this year. This promise was not kept, but commuters were relieved when construction finally began in early July.

The first phase will cover a distance of five kilometres from Madodonga to Tshikwarani, next to the Kutama clinic. Phase 2 of the project, which entails refurbishing the remaining 3.1 km, will commence after the first phase is completed.

Ms Luyanda Sithole, RAL’s communication manager, said the delay was caused by community protests. Protesters insisted that the project start at a different location from the one initially planned.

A local resident, Mr Joe Mulelu, urged road users to cooperate with the contractors until the project wwas completed. “This project is ours, and it is important to adhere to the safety instructions at all times. This will give the contractors ample time to finish their work uninterrupted and without any disturbances,” he said.