Note to Editors: Please find attached English and Afrikaans soundbites by Cllr Hessie Shebe and Sesotho soundbite by Cllr Kabelo Moreeng. See attached pictures here and here.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) calls on the Free State MEC for Community Safety, Roads, and Transport to urgently address the deteriorating condition of the R701 provincial road between Bethulie and Gariepdam. This key route has reached an advanced state of decay that no longer meets basic safety standards required for public use.
The continued neglect of the road represents a failure of governance that is directly affecting the Free State’s economic potential and placing the lives and livelihoods of its citizens in daily danger.
The R701 acts as a vital link for both the agricultural sector and the local economy of Bethulie and Gariepdam. The condition of the R701 is unacceptable and is imposing an economic constraint on the already struggling District of Xhariep. Residents, tourists, and heavy vehicles carrying essential goods and agricultural produce cannot safely navigate the road.
This has resulted in a situation where tourism and the movement of goods and services have been severely disrupted.
The DA has written to the MEC for Community Safety, Roads, and Transport demanding urgent intervention. We will continue to place pressure through the Legislature to ensure that the Department fulfils its mandate.