Eastern Cape Transformed into Construction Hub with Over R3.5 Billion SANRAL Investment

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04-06-2025
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Pondoland Times
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Major road projects in Ndabakazi, Qumrha, Bhisho, and Ngqushwa bring jobs, infrastructure upgrades, and skills development to Eastern Cape municipalities

The Eastern Cape Province is experiencing a transformative infrastructure boom as the South African National Roads Agency SOC Limited (SANRAL) injects over R3.5 billion into road construction and rehabilitation across Mnquma, Great Kei, Ngqushwa, and Buffalo City municipalities.

Once-quiet towns like Ndabakazi, Qumrha, Bhisho, and Ngqushwa have become active construction zones, buzzing with workers, machinery, and development momentum.

Ndabakazi Intermodal Interchange: Jobs and Mobility

One of the flagship projects underway is the Ndabakazi Intermodal Interchange, set to be completed in August 2025. The project includes a new bridge over the N2 and a taxi rank, easing traffic congestion and improving road safety.

“Through this project, 240 jobs have been created, equipping the local community with valuable construction and engineering skills,” said Mbulelo Peterson, SANRAL’s Provincial Head for the Eastern Cape.

The project also supports internship and training programmes, with participants ranging from BTech graduates to N6 Civil Engineering students. These interns are receiving on-site experience that aligns with their academic qualifications.

R63 Upgrade: Bhisho to Qumrha Gets a Boost

The R63 road between Bhisho and Qumrha is undergoing extensive improvements, including road widening, better markings, and upgraded intersections. Started in May 2023 and set for completion in June 2026, the project has already created 364 job opportunities and includes formal training delivered by accredited providers.

Bhisho to N6 Route: Pedestrian and Community Focus

Upgrades along the R63 from Bhisho to the N6 include:

• 16 major surfaced intersections
• 12 km of pedestrian walkways
• 3 km of access roads
• 5 km of community service roads
• A new taxi rank in Peelton

More than 259 people have been employed, five of whom are people with disabilities, reflecting SANRAL’s inclusive employment model.

Ngqushwa to Makhana: Road Safety and Structural Expansion

On the N2 between Ngqushwa and Makhana, SANRAL is focusing on widening lanes, building three underpasses, and extending two existing culverts. So far, the project has:

• Created 419 full-time jobs
• Trained 436 workers in road-building and safety protocols

SANRAL’s Footprint in the Eastern Cape

The agency oversees 5,885 km of roads in the Eastern Cape — the longest stretch within its national network of 27,501 km. This multi-site investment not only strengthens economic development but also enhances the province’s mobility, safety, and skills base.

“We are building roads and building futures,” said Peterson.