The Mpumalanga Department of Public Works, Roads and Transport wishes to update the community of Pienaar and surrounding areas on the current status of the road construction project at Lihawu /Emoyeni road.
Following several engagements with the initial contractor regarding concerns over continued poor performance and failure to meet project timelines, the contractor has formally ceded the project. This decision follows repeated attempts by the Department to ensure improved productivity and adherence to contractual obligations, all of which were unsuccessful.
A new contractor ( Umdali Civils) has since been appointed and was scheduled to commence work on-site today. However, due to protests in the area, the contractor was unable to begin operations as planned. The Department can confirm that the new contractor will be on-site as from tomorrow morning, and start with mobilisation of the necessary plant and equipment and personnel. The contractor will urgently attend to the maintenance of the road section from Lihawu to Emoyeni Mall to make it safe for all road users. Construction work will proceed with speed to recover lost time and complete the project as required.
The Department, through its appointed consulting engineers, will intensify monitoring of the project to ensure strict compliance with quality standards and timelines until completion.
MEC Thulasizwe Thomo has expressed his expectations for weekly progress reports from the project team. He has also appealed to the community to work closely with the Department and allow uninterrupted access to the site so that the road can be completed without further delays.
The Department remains committed to delivering safe and reliable road infrastructure to the people of Mpumalanga.
ENDS...
For more information please contact Mr. Bongani Dhlamini on 0792936515.