ActionSA Warns R114 Million D4382 Road Project Unlikely to Meet 2026 Deadline

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22-09-2025
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Action SA
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ActionSA notes with deep concern the findings of the Portfolio Committee on Public Works during an oversight visit conducted yesterday with the Department of Public Works and key stakeholders, including the Public Service Commission, as part of the Taking the Legislature to the People programme.

The oversight revealed serious challenges with the 13.6km road D4382 upgrade project between Belfast and Justicia, which the Department had planned to complete by 22 November 2025, but has since shifted this date to 23 January 2026. Disturbingly, even during the oversight visit, no work was taking place due to repeated work stoppages linked to the non-payment of contractors. This is unacceptable and points to a lack of financial discipline and accountability within the Department.

Despite the initial budget allocation of R114 million, the Department has already added a further R14 million to the project, bringing the revised contract total to R128 million. Yet, it remains highly unlikely that the road will be completed within the revised timeframe. The Department has already recorded 14% in variation orders, and once this reaches 20% as per Treasury regulations, the project will need to be re-tendered, creating further delays and additional costs. This raises serious concerns about poor project management, fiscal waste, and cost control.

The rainy season is fast approaching, and the current box-cut work on the road risks turning into a mud pool, leaving the community in an even worse state than before. Without proper roads, the local economy cannot grow, and ordinary residents are left to suffer the consequences of stalled development. Already, households living along the project site are forced to endure dangerous deep diggings right outside their gates, posing risks to their safety and mobility.

ActionSA further notes with concern the Department’s claim that labourers are engaged in disputes over rates. Once a tender is awarded, the scope of work and rates should be clear, and such disputes are unjustifiable. What is urgently required is a proactive and effective social facilitator to ensure smoother communication between contractors, the community, and the Department so that work is not constantly disrupted.

The non-payment of contractors by the Department is simply indefensible. A project of this magnitude, once started, cannot afford to be abandoned mid-way. The community deserves better than half-dug roads, empty promises, and wasted millions.

ActionSA reiterates that public funds must be spent responsibly, and infrastructure delivery must be prioritised as a matter of urgency. Failure to complete this road project will not only deepen the suffering of the affected community but will also serve as another indictment of the Department’s inability to deliver on its mandate.