Roads agency looks into seven new tolls

Anna Cox THE SOUTH Africa National Roads Agency is considering the construction of seven toll roads, seen as important transport links or as vital for the economic growth of the surrounding areas. These include: - The N1 between Kroonstad and Three Sisters. Increased mining activities are expected to necessitate improved roads; - The N5 between Winberg and north of Bloemfontein, which is a main export link for agriculture and mining industries. A preliminary investigation is being undertaken. - The N8 between Kimberley and Maseru with Swaziland keen to join the South African side of the road; - The N12 between Johannesburg and Three Sisters. While this is still a provincial road, the NRA decided to assess its traffic load given the growth of new mines which are being serviced by the road; - The N1 between Ladysmith and Middelburg; - The N2 between Richards Bay and Ermelo. Sasol Secunda is calling for this as it would like it as an optional export route giving the company the choice of exporting its products either through the Maputo Corridor or through Richards Bay. - The N12 between Edenvale and Daveyton.