Is the war on potholes for real?

Limpopo Premier Stan Mathabatha announced a “war on potholes” on October 23, complete with Facebook photos of trucks and roadworks machines apparently fi xing the D2537.

But hours after the photoshoot, the trucks, machines and workers had left.

With photos of trucks and public works employees in orange, the premier’s Facebook page announced: “MEC for public works, roads and infrastructure Dr Monicca Mochadi against this backdrop launched Operation Thiba Potholes at the D2537 route in Burgersfort.

“The operation will see the MEC conducting oversight visits to road infrastructure projects which are currently under construction across the province.”

“The department has declared a war against potholes. This is also in preparation for the festive season which requires our roads to be completed, of good quality and in good condition,” said MEC Mochadi.

But when the MEC, the trucks and the workers left, the D2537 was in the same condition, the potholes merely fi lled with sand.

The road has been damaged for years because of heavy rain, lack of maintenance and traffic caused by mining in the area.

Motorists said the road was a mess. Police and emergency vehicles are delayed and vehicles battle to pass each other, said Aubrey Ngwatle, one of a group of motorists demanding the Limpopo government fi x the road.

“We find it very disturbing that the office of the premier is spreading malicious lies on Facebook that they are fi xing the road,” he said.

Asked for comment, spokesperson for the premier Kenny Mathivha said the Facebook post had been “deposited” by MEC Mochadi’s office. “We, therefore, advise all questions related to that road and any other be directed to the MEC and Road Agency Limpopo.”

Mabotha Mamoshasha, from the MEC’s offi denied the Facebook post might be misleading, saying: “On October 23, at D2537 road from Penge to Burgersfort the MEC was observing a demonstration of technology for patching potholes.” – Republished from Groundup.org.za