Question NW1221 to the Minister of Transport
11 December 2019 - NW1221
Seitlholo, Mr IS to ask the Minister of Transport
Whether, since he assumed office in May 2019, he has had any engagement and/or interaction with SA National Roads Agency SOC Ltd regarding the sinkholes on the N12 in Matlosana Local Municipality, Stilfontein; if not, why not; if so, what (a) were the outcomes of such engagement(s) and (b) action steps have been decided upon?
Reply:
1. No the Minister has not had any engagements with SANRAL on the sinkholes on the N12, in Matlosana Local Municipality, Stilfontein.
2. This matter is currently being handled by SANRAL directly with the Matlosana Local Municipality and has not been escalated to the Minister or the Department.
3. The sinkhole in question straddles land owned by SANRAL and that owned by the Matlosana Local Municipality, emanating from a water pipe damage. Matlosana Municipality is responsible for the repair and relocation of the waterpipe and the restoration of the sinkhole that is located on its land and SANRAL is responsible for repairs on its land. SANRAL and Matlosana Local Municipality have agreed to execute the repairs jointly. The total cost is estimated at some R37m, but the municipality is not able to contribute its part to cover this cost. SANRAL has appointed consultants who are currently finalising the designs for the required works. The Municipality has indicated that it has applied for disaster relief funding but has not received approval yet. The MOU for the execution of the works has been drafted and is awaiting confirmation of the funding availability on the municipality’s side before signature.
4. Funding support for the municipality would greatly assist, as it would enable the sinkhole rehabilitation project to begin. SANRAL does not have jurisdiction to spend funds in areas outside of declared national roads or in mainline water projects.