Note to Editors: Please find attached English and Afrikaans soundbites by Dulandi Leech MPL and Sesotho soundbite by Jafta Mokoena MPL
The Democratic Alliance (DA) will intensify oversight in the Free State Legislature, whilst already submitting follow-up questions to the MEC for Police, Roads and Transport. Formal requests for urgent intervention to restore access to critical gravel roads and silo routes across affected districts has in addition been submitted to the department.
The DA is deeply concerned about the continued deterioration of key gravel roads, particularly those providing access to agricultural hubs and silos, which are vital to the livelihoods of rural communities. Across districts such as Xhariep, Thabo Mofutsanyana, and Fezile Dabi, there is a clear pattern of neglect, poor maintenance, and a lack of accountability in the management of provincial road infrastructure. This is further compounded by incomplete projects and stalled construction, such as the R720 between Koppies, Edenville and Heilbron, as well as the halted work at the Wilge River Bridge.
The condition of these roads has a direct and damaging effect on residents, especially those in farming and rural communities. When gravel roads become impassable due to erosion, flooding, or failed construction, farmers are unable to transport produce to silos, workers struggle to access farms, and heavy vehicles sustain costly damage. This not only disrupts harvesting during critical periods but also places strain on the entire agricultural value chain, leading to financial losses and rising food insecurity. In areas such as Viljoenskroon, the lack of access to Senwes silos due to road closures and flooding further illustrates how infrastructure failures can paralyse local economies. Additionally, other services such as police, health, and other government services are also unable to serve rural communities due to the poor roads.
Voters in rural areas deserve reliable infrastructure that supports economic activity and ensures safe, consistent access to markets and services. The continued neglect of gravel roads and silo access routes is not only an infrastructure failure but a direct threat to livelihoods, food security, and local economic stability.
The DA remains committed to holding the Department accountable and ensuring that urgent, practical solutions are implemented to restore road access and support the communities that depend on it.