Sanral launches R516 upgrade

Thabazimbi/ Leeupoort – Sanral (South African National Roads Agency) met with local residents, farmers, and small businesses at Raphuti Sports Ground in Leeupoort on Wednesday 12 March 2025 to unveil plans for a major infrastructure upgrade to the R516. The community engagement aimed to spark meaningful dialogue, ensure transparency, and mobilise support for what is set to be a nearly R1 billion road development investment connecting Thabazimbi to Bela-Bela.

Speaking at the event, Madoda Mthembu, Sanral Limpopo provincial head, emphasised the significance of the R516 upgrade and outlined its far-reaching implications for public safety, local economic development, and transport efficiency in this agriculturally rich and mining-heavy region. “This project is a major upgrade for the community. We’re improving the route from Koedoeskop, at the R511 intersection, toward Bela-Bela — enhancing accessibility and paving the way for sustainable growth,” Mthembu said.

“We appoint highly skilled service providers—from design engineers to contractors—and we pride ourselves on completing projects we start,” he noted.

From the outset, Sanral has placed community inclusion at the heart of the planning process. Farmers along the route were consulted during the design phase, with formal feedback processes in place. “Each farmer was given a report to sign off, confirming their approval of the project,” Mthembu explained. “Their ongoing support during construction remains vital.”

Balancing progress with environmental responsibility, Sanral committed to managing construction disruptions with sensitivity. The use of shorter “Stop-and-Go” sections will minimise traffic delays while construction is underway.

Photo: Community members gathered in unity at Raphuti Sports Ground, Leeupoort, to hear about the R516 upgrade — proof that development starts with conversation.