Sanral to spend R5.3bn on Port Elizabeth, East London road

Sanral's spokesman Vusi Mona says that R745m will be spent on initial work aimed at improving the road between East London and Port Elizabeth. Image: Looklocal

The two cities are the province's major economic hubs, making the road vital for future economic development. The expansion of the R72 will include resurfacing and the addition of lanes where necessary.

The total cost of the work is estimated at R5.3bn.

Sanral spokesman Vusi Mona was unable to say when work on the road would begin.

Sanral's Regional Director Mbulelo Peterson has confirmed that a tender committee will this week decide on the appointment of the contractor for the resurfacing and addition of lanes on the section between the Keiskamma River and the East London airport.

This project alone would cost R73-million, he said.

The 227km road was incorporated into the national grid together with several other provincial roads in 2012 after its ownership was transferred from the provincial government to Sanral.

Mona said Sanral would spend R745m over the next three years on upgrading the R72. He was unable to say whether Sanral intended to charge tolls along the R72's route.

Source: Herald via I-Net Bridge