DELMAS – On Thursday, April 25, 2024, residents of Arbor and Delmas celebrated the reconstruction of the coal haulage, R555, as it was officially unveiled. The rehabilitation project, which stretches for over 30KM, commenced in November 2021 and was finally completed in March 2024 at a cost of approximately R170 million, according to the Department of Public Works, Roads and Transport. Mpumalanga Premier Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane shared her delight with the community about the newly constructed road: ‘We are delighted because this coal haulage road was in a bad state.” The premier further made a plea to the community, stating, “We want to urge and appeal to the community that, as they become frustrated due to the lack of basic services, they must not take to the streets and burn the road. Instead, they must protect it and continue to fight for what they believe they have been deprived of, but in a much more responsible way that doesn’t damage the infrastructure provided to them by the government.”
Executive Mayor of Victor Khanye, Vusi Buda, shared his feelings with the Highveld Chronicle. “We are very happy for the reconstruction of the road because it was in a bad condition and there were many car accidents that led to fatalities. The road is now in good condition, and all we want is for drivers and residents to take good care of it. We are very happy for the people of Victor Khanye,” he expressed.
Resident of Victor Khanye, Rachel Mnguni, shared her feelings about the reconstructed road. “As they have reconstructed our road, I am very happy. I don’t even have words to express my happiness. We couldn’t drive on that road because of potholes. We are very grateful for what they did for us,” she expressed.
