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Jun 25, 2008:
Government will be spending R70bn to upgrade and improve some road networks in Gauteng through the Gauteng Freeway Improvement Project (GFIP).
Speaking during the sod-turning ceremony which marked the launch of the project in Isando in Johannesburg on Tuesday, Transport Minister Jeff Radebe said the project would go a long way to reduce Gauteng's notorious traffic congestion.
The Ben Schoeman Highway, which will celebrate its 40th birthday this year, is one of the busiest in the world, with more than 180,000 vehicles using the road during peak periods per day.
Radebe said the congestion on the freeways around Gauteng is inhibiting economic growth and development.
"This 'heart bypass' for Gauteng will enable the economic hub of the sub-continent to grow without the hindrance of poor traffic management," he said, referring to the Ben Schoeman highway.
"The levels of congestion on Gauteng's roads are totally unacceptable and most inconvenient."
Not only will extra lanes be built on the highways, but also the interchanges will be improved to prevent the delays which are currently being experienced.
"This will also provide an opportunity for us to use technology such as Intelligent Transport System (ITS), which comprises variable message signs, a network management centre, ramp metering, opening of auxiliary lanes and cameras," said Radebe.
This equipment will help to manage traffic flow and keep road users informed about prevailing conditions to improve their travelling experience and reduce travelling times.
Radebe said the ITS is controlled at the network management centre, where information on traffic and construction is posted on the variable message signs, over the radio and the internet.
The department will also introduce electronic tolling on all national tolled roads, whereby motorists will have a transponder in their vehicles which register their use of the road.
The minister said every effort would be made to have operational integration between the various sections of road.
The project is set to contribute R29bn to the gross domestic product as well as R13bn towards the regional Geographic Gross Productivity, by the end of 2009.
A number of jobs will be created during the construction, while skills transfer will ensure that construction workers gain more experience and learn more about their business.
The department will invest more than R12bn in the first phase of the project which is scheduled to be completed by 2010.
During the final phase of the project in 2018, a further R23bn will be invested.
The project follows a partnership between the Gauteng Provincial Government, the Tshwane and Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipalities and the City of Johannesburg.
Cabinet has also approved the Road Infrastructure Framework for South Africa, which is a blueprint for the planning, development and maintenance of the country's road network.
Radebe said government was spending R70bn in total on the roads infrastructure in the country. – Nthambeleni Gabara, BuaNews
