N12 completed with change to spare

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04-03-2016
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The Citizen
Source

Gauteng MEC for roads and transport Ismail Vadi yesterday officially reopened the upgraded N12 freeway near Zuurbekom, southwest of Johannesburg.

Vadi said the R485-million upgrade stretched from Eldorado Park to the North West border, with the road now being developed into a dual carriageway.

The N12 is a freight link between Gauteng and North West through Kimberley to the Western Cape. It services the mining, agriculture and tourism sectors.

Vadi said the freeway, together with major interchanges that were improved along the route, was not part of the e-tolled network.

According to Vadi, the project was completed on schedule and there were savings to his department.

The 20-month project involved resurfacing the freeway, clearing drainage structures, replacing missing steel grids, reinstating road markings, erecting new road signs and replacing guardrails.

“The project had a strong economic empowerment component,” said Vadi. “More than 350 workers, particularly women and youth, and more than 20 local subcontractors were appointed.”

The MEC was “happy” local employees were trained on-site in courses such as the erection of guardrails, fencing and sign posts; flagging and road safety; environmental awareness; HIV and Aids in construction; and contract and business management. – ANA