After noticing how unsafe the R331 was between Patensie and Hankey, the Gamtoos Irrigation Board embarked on a clean-up project by removing overgrown grass from the drains and large rocks to allow motorists to safely travel on the road.
According to Rienette Colesky, CEO of the Gamtoos Irrigation Board, mechanic André van der Heever was concerned about the blocked drains and large rocks alongside the R331.
She said the road was very unsafe, especially during the packing season when there were a lot of trucks travelling on the road.
Colesky said that since the road was very narrow and there were no yellow lines on a part of the road, it was necessary for her team to ensure that the road was safe.
“We are all very dependent on the road between Patensie and Hankey and it was important for us to make sure it was safe for all,” said Colesky.
She said that they had approached the Department of Transport to adhere to the strict rules put in place when working on public works since there was a lot of liability at stake.
Once they received permission, from the department, on October 27, Derrick Thokoane, manager of the civil department, his team and many of the board’s water control officials, embarked on a clean-up project on the road where they removed the rocks using their JCB machine.
They also removed trees which were blocking the view for motorists travelling in both directions.
Colesky said one of the main focuses of the irrigation board was to be available to assist their community and instead of complaining about the challenges faced in the area, they worked on getting things done.
Colesky said that the water users who funded the irrigation board and the board members all believe it is important to be seen in the community and make a difference.
“We are not just willing to help on issues that are concerning to all, such as cleaning up roads, but we also help local schools, clinics and sports clubs,” said Colesky.
“We would like to make a difference in our community, and we want to be a benefit to everyone in and around the Gamtoos Valley.”
Apart from their recent clean-up project, Colesky said that they had previously removed alien invasive plants from the Loerie turnoff to the N2 and they regularly maintain part of the road from Kouga Dam to the N2, on behalf of the Department of Transport, by fixing the potholes.
The ongoing maintenance of the Loerie turnoff to the N2 has been managed by project manager at Working for Water, André Kogana.
Colesky said that the irrigation board funds most of the projects with donations from various institutions and the Department of Transport.
“We are committed to keeping our roads safe,” said Colesky.
