GOVERNMENT UPGRADES MPHARANE ROAD NETWORK TO BITUMEN STANDARD

 
 At least M52.5 million has been earmarked for roads network construction at Mpharane and Bela-Bela with funds from the African Development Bank (ADB) and the government of Lesotho. The government of Lesotho through the Ministry of Public Works and Transport has signed a contract with a South African Company, Raubex Construction for the upgrading of the two areas, Mpharane-Bela Bela road
network to bitumen standard.

A press release from the Ministry of Public Works and Transport indicates that the contract covers the upgrading of three gravel roads located in North-Eastern Lesotho in the districts of Leribe and Berea. The road sections are Mpharane road ending at St. Theresa Mission in Bela-Bela and two spur roads that branch off from this road to Kolojane and to Bela-Bela.

The upgrading of these gravel roads to bitumen standard in an endeavor  to improve accessibility to rural agricultural areas is an important component in the implementation of the Road Rehabilitation and Maintenance Project. The upgrading of these roads will facilitate and improve traffic to and from the region. The upgrading will reduce vehicle operating costs and traffic accidents as well as to stimulate the already active agricultural sector and introduce opportunities for economic growth.

The construction commenced at the beginning of August 2003 and is expected to be completed in  a period of 15 months.

22nd  August 2003