SANRAL targets three major national road upgrades in Gauteng

The South African National Roads Agency SOC Limited (SANRAL) has awarded three road resurfacing contracts worth approximately R1.43bn across the City of Tshwane and City of Ekurhuleni metropolitan municipalities, targeting improvements to key sections of Gauteng's national road network

The projects cover the R21, N3 and N17 highways and form part of SANRAL's programme to maintain national road infrastructure, strengthen road safety and create economic opportunities for surrounding communities.

Construction on all three projects will commence following a three-month mobilisation period. Progress Hlahla, SANRAL's Gauteng Provincial Head, said the contract awards would support the upkeep of important transport routes used for passenger and freight movement.

“I am pleased with the awards of these projects as they represent the work that SANRAL puts in the upkeep of Gauteng’s national road network. These routes are important for the transportation of goods and people, connecting communities and facilitating economic activity. The improvement of these routes will ensure that our infrastructure continues to serve road users safely and efficiently,” said Hlahla.

Three national routes set for rehabilitation

The largest contract, valued at R499.8mn, has been awarded to Roadmac Surfacing (Pty) Ltd for resurfacing the R21 between the Olifantsfontein and Hans Strydom interchanges in the City of Tshwane.

Work is scheduled to begin in early January 2027, with completion expected in April 2028. The programme includes road resurfacing, replacing danger plates at culvert structures, installing new permanent regulatory and warning signs, replacing guardrails where necessary, and applying fresh road markings and road studs.

Roadspan Surfaces (Pty) Ltd has secured the R463mn contract for the N3 section between the Heidelberg Road and Geldenhuys interchanges in the City of Ekurhuleni.

Construction is expected to begin towards the end of February 2027 and finish in September 2028. Planned works include resurfacing, drainage repairs, guardrail installation and replacement, and upgrades to road signs, markings and studs.

The third contract, worth approximately R469.5mn, has also been awarded to Roadmac Surfacing (Pty) Ltd. It covers the N17 between Springs and the Leandra Interchange, beginning in the City of Ekurhuleni and extending into the Gert Sibande District in Mpumalanga, ending near the Leandra toll plaza.

Construction is expected to start in mid-May 2027. The work will involve removing the existing asphalt and laying a new surface, alongside replacing bridge joints.

Contracts create opportunities for local communities

Alongside the road improvement works, SANRAL has incorporated public participation and skills development requirements into the contracts. A total of 30% of the final contract award value for each project will be allocated to public participation initiatives.

These provisions will create opportunities for targeted labour and enterprises, including businesses owned by young people, women, military veterans and persons living with disabilities.

The projects will also provide community-based training opportunities through Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges and universities.

“Whilst the primary objective of these awards is for construction, we also recognise the importance of creating opportunities for meaningful participation and skills development for people and small businesses within the communities in which we operate,” added Hlahla.