A critical transport link connecting the villages of Nokaneng and Katjibane has deteriorated to a state of near impassability, stranding residents and crippling daily life. The road and a partially collapsed bridge, which serve as the main artery to the nearest town, have become a severe safety and economic burden for communities under the Dr JS Moroka Local Municipality.
The situation has reached a crisis point, with motorists, particularly taxi operators, reporting continuous vehicle damage and unsustainable operating costs. The problems intensify dramatically during rainy weather, making the route treacherous.
“The road is not right for us for taxis and cars,” said one frustrated resident of Katjibane. “We are asking government to help us and fix this road. We have a big problem which is the bridge. They are busy with it but our main concern is the road.”
The impact extends beyond transportation. Parents in Nokaneng report having to accompany their children on the arduous journey to school, as the children cannot travel the road alone and arrive filthy due to the conditions.
“The road is affecting us a lot, mama,” explained a resident. “We are using this road to go to [the nearest town]… it’s affecting us a lot because of lack of transportation.” The resident also highlighted a cascading economic effect, stating that taxi operators are now planning fare increases to compensate for longer, fuel-wasting alternative routes they must take to avoid the worst sections.
While community frustration has mounted over what they describe as an issue spanning many years, a glimmer of hope has emerged. The Department of Infrastructure in Mpumalanga has confirmed that repair work is now underway.
A department spokesperson stated: “The department remains committed to restoring safe, reliable, and durable transport infrastructure for the affected communities and appreciates the patience and cooperation of the road users during the construction period.”
According to the department, work has begun on the long-awaited bridge reconstruction, a project that promises to reconnect Nokaneng and Katjibane fully. Furthermore, a major upgrade to the road itself is planned, with the installation of paving blocks aimed at ensuring smoother and more reliable travel.
Residents, while cautiously optimistic about the announced repairs, continue to call for swift and decisive action to end their prolonged isolation and restore safe, affordable access to essential services and economic opportunities.