Rows of mining and heavy duty trucks were forced to park along the side of the road in Barkly West, Windsorton and Delportshoop on Wednesday after a service delivery march took place in Barkly West.
Rows of mining and heavy duty trucks were forced to park along the side of the road in Barkly West, Windsorton and Delportshoop on Wednesday after a service delivery march took place in Barkly West.
EFF councillor, Lefa Leeuw, said trucks were delayed for about four hours and would be stopped again on Thursday for the duration of another march.
“The mining and heavy duty trucks are causing damage to roads in the Dikgatlong area. A weigh bridge should be built to divert traffic where heavy duty vehicles are charged a fee that can be used for road repairs. “
He indicated that light motor vehicles should be exempted from paying a toll fee.
“Ordinary motorists are struggling with petrol increases but big mining companies transporting 28 000 tons of iron ore and manganese can afford to pay up between R180 and R200 to pass through.”
Leeuw added that the funds collected could be used to repair potholes, build clinics, computer laboratories and creches for the disabled.
He said traffic congestion had increased since the R31 road near Platfontein was closed due to flooding.
“There are also more road accidents where those responsible are not compensating those who have been injured.”
Leeuw stated that they marched to the Dikgatlong municipal offices on Wednesday although no one was available to accept their memorandum.
“Officials, including the mayor and municipal manager, were in Upington. We will return to the municipality on Thursday, June 9, to hand over our memorandum regarding service delivery to the chief financial officer. We actually want the municipal manager and mayor to to collect the memorandum.”
Police spokesperson, Sergeant Timothy Sam, said the R31 was opened on Wednesday afternoon after traffic was diverted on the R31 near Barkly West.
“Residents in Barkly West were engaged in a service delivery protest where trucks were stopped in Windsorton and Delportshoop. The police will continue to monitor the situation.”
