NIEU-BETHESDA NEWS — The 5km stretch of dirt road between de Toren farm and the village of Nieu-Bethesda is rapidly disintegrating into a chronic state of disrepair.
Drivers have to weave between potholes and guard against inadvertently leaving the road as corrugations and sharp rocks have rendered the road extremely difficult to drive on.
The road between the N9 and the village was tarred in 2010, much to the relief of residents of the remote village. The entire stretch of road was prepared for tarring but the last 5km was unexpectedly stopped and the road building team left, leaving the tar road incomplete.
The problem now is that the substructure of the dirt road, which was prepared for tarring, has been built with a layer of sharp rock, which is now on the surface. Nieu-Bethesda’s growing population and the fact that it is an increasingly popular tourist destination means that many people/vehicles use the road. Many residents and visitors suffer from flat tyres. Vehicles of those who have to use the road on a regular basis are also put under a great deal of strain.
Vicky Knoetze, DA shadow MEC of roads and public works has been made aware of the situation. Together with Linda Botha, Ward 2 councillor they have set up a petition which has been made available to every person with a vehicle using the road.
The section of road is the responsibility of the Provincial Department of Roads and Transport. Knoetze and Botha believe that with the co-operation of taxpayers and residents, the road can be completed by making their voices heard though a petition which they will then follow up on. Concerned residents Justin Duckitt and Jacques Muller have made this petition available for signing at ‘Die Waenhuis’.
Anyone who uses the road is encouraged to sign it. Linda Botha also asks that copies of invoices for tyre repairs be attached to the petition. She appeals to villagers to encourage staff, guests and tourists to also sign.
Although Nieu-Bethesda is a small village at the end of a winding road, it is imperative that basic services are still maintained in order to allow for the smooth running of this community. Vicky Knoetze will visit Nieu-Bethesda on the weekend of June 3 and 4 to take official hand-over of the petition in her capacity of DA shadow MEC of Roads and Public Works /Dr Beyers Naude Constituency leader.
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