Another R50 million pumped into Thohoyandou taxi-rank project

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10-10-2025
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Limpopo Mirror
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The long-delayed Thohoyandou Intermodal Transport Facility in Limpopo is set to receive an additional R50 million in funding, bringing the total investment in the project to approximately R350 million. Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba announced the new allocation during a ceremony on Tuesday, when handing over the project to a new contractor.

“The additional funds are necessary to ensure completion, and we are not going to compromise on quality here,” Premier Ramathuba said. “This R50 million project must be completed on time. I urge communities to allow the contractor to hire qualified professionals to do the work.”

Launched in May 2011, the facility was originally slated for completion in 2015 but has remained incomplete because of structural issues and delays. In 2024, a further R16 million was allocated to address defects and ensure the facility could meet safety standards. Despite these efforts, the modern taxi and bus rank has yet to become operational, frustrating commuters and residents alike.

Premier Ramathuba assured the public that the facility would be ready by May next year and emphasised that only experienced and reputable contractors would be allowed to complete the work. “We have consulted with the construction industry, and a full assessment by a professional engineering company gave us a structural-integrity certificate. I am committed to cutting the ribbon next May,” she said.

The premier was joined by MEC for Public Works and Transport Ernest Rachoene; MEC for Transport and Community Safety Violet Mathye; Vhembe District Executive Mayor Freda Nkondo; and traditional leader Thovhele Gole Mphaphuli during the handover ceremony.

Mayor Nkondo said the continuation of construction would inspire accelerated development in the district. “To the appointed contractor, we place our trust in you. You are not only building a facility; you are building hope and confidence for the people of Vhembe,” she said.

Thovhele Gole Mphaphuli expressed his excitement at the prospect of the facility’s finally being operational. “It gives me great joy that our long-standing transport model will soon be ready to serve the communities around Vhembe,” he said.

The R350 million facility, intended as a state-of-the-art hub for buses and taxis in the Thulamela Local Municipality, was envisioned as a benchmark for other municipalities across Limpopo. However, the repeated delays and rising costs have drawn criticism from residents and opposition parties, who argue the funds could have been spent on other pressing infrastructure needs.