Note to Editors: Please find attached English and Afrikaans soundbites by Cllr Marius Marais and Sesotho soundbite by David Masoeu MPL. See attached pictures here, here, here and here.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) in the Thabo Mofutsanyana District has written to the municipal manager to address the apparent failure of the road resurfacing project on Bloekom Street in Bakenpark, Bethlehem.
According to an on-site oversight, the project has multiple critical defects and deviations from the communications to residents.
No precast kerbs were installed as promised, and the stormwater drainage system remains ineffective, allowing water onto the new tarred surface. This persistent water damage is quickly causing potholes, bumps, and other surface deformities, revealing weak foundational work.
These failures strongly suggest substandard workmanship and raise concerns of possible wasteful and irregular expenditure.
Given the historical condition of Bloekom Street, characterised by persistent water accumulation and structural degradation, it is deeply concerning that the municipality opted for resurfacing rather than full reconstruction.
The DA is therefore demanding urgent clarity on the following:
- Why was a resurfacing project approved instead of a full reconstruction?
- Was a pre-implementation engineering or feasibility assessment conducted?
- What was the approved project budget, and how much has been spent to date?
- What corrective measures will now be implemented to prevent further financial loss?
Taxpayers deserve accountability and infrastructure that meets acceptable engineering standards.
The DA will continue to monitor the situation closely and will pursue all available oversight mechanisms to ensure accountability.