en.Wedoany.com Reported - The Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport stated that the R553 (Gold Highway) rehabilitation project is progressing according to the approved timeline, and the department is confident of completing construction before the actual mid-September completion date.
The R553 rehabilitation project covers the section from the R558 intersection to beyond the M68 (Chris Hani Road and Columbine Avenue) intersection. Large-scale repairs are underway to strengthen the existing pavement structure, accommodate expected traffic volumes, improve road safety, enhance capacity, and extend the lifespan of this critical transport corridor.
Progress achieved to date includes road widening, construction of new medians, improvements to stormwater drainage systems, and repairs to multiple sections. The department stated that ongoing operations include base course construction, paving, asphalt surfacing, traffic signal upgrades, and finishing work at several intersections.
Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport, Kedibone Diale-Tlabela, said the project remains a key infrastructure investment aimed at improving mobility and safety for communities and businesses that rely on this corridor. "We are encouraged by the progress made and remain focused on ensuring the project delivers value for money to the public, completing it on time and cost-effectively."
She stated that once completed, the upgraded R553 will provide safer and more efficient travel, improve connectivity, and support economic activity along this vital route. "We call on motorists and other road users to exercise caution when passing through construction areas and to comply with temporary traffic management measures implemented to enhance safety."
To further promote efficient construction and reduce inconvenience to road users, the project has been divided into six sections, each approximately 4 kilometers long. Construction activities are limited to a maximum of three sections at a time, with at least a 4-kilometer gap maintained between active work zones to improve traffic flow and ensure safety. Monthly project steering committee meetings are held, attended by department officials, the main contractor, and key stakeholders, to monitor progress, address operational challenges, and take corrective action when necessary.
Diale-Tlabela said traffic management and public safety remain key priorities throughout the project period. Additionally, to strengthen stakeholder communication, the contractor regularly provides updates on construction activities, traffic delays, and intersection closures to help motorists plan their journeys and reduce travel disruptions. The project has also faced ongoing theft and vandalism of temporary traffic signs, road markings, and other traffic control devices, which increases safety risks for motorists, pedestrians, and construction workers between active work zones. Despite this, the provincial department remains committed to continuously maintaining effective traffic control measures during construction.
