Local economy under threat due to deteriorating road infrastructure in Springbok
The road surface in parts of Springbok’s industrial area has deteriorated to such an extent that it threatens to deprive the town of much-needed economic opportunities. AfriForum has therefore called on the Nama Khoi Local Municipality to urgently provide workable solutions to improve the condition of the roads, particularly on Inry Street.
AfriForum maintains that the condition of Inry Street has deteriorated to the point where the road is at times nearly impassable due to large potholes and severe damage to the road surface. This street serves as the main access route to the industrial area and is used daily by business people and heavy vehicles.
“The industrial area is an important economic hub of Springbok where income is generated on a daily basis. It is therefore unacceptable that the main access route is in such a deplorable condition,” says Werner Strauss, AfriForum’s District Coordinator for the Northern Cape.
AfriForum points out that the problem is not limited to Inry Street, but that several other roads in Springbok are also in urgent need of repairs and maintenance. The civil rights organisation believes that the deterioration of infrastructure not only inconveniences residents and motorists but also hampers economic development.
The organisation has requested the Municipal Manager of the Nama Khoi Local Municipality, Refilwe Sebela, to give urgent attention to the matter, provide a workable solution, and prioritise proper repair work.
“If decisive action is not taken, the infrastructure will continue to deteriorate instead of supporting progress and development. The residents and businesses of Springbok deserve safe and serviceable roads,” Strauss concludes.
