Bakwena N1N4 has confirmed that extensive road rehabilitation projects will soon take place on the N1 highway between Pretoria and Limpopo. The multimillion-rand upgrades are aimed at improving road safety and travel conditions, but motorists should expect delays and traffic management measures over the next two years.

Contents

First Phase: Proefplaas to Pumulani
Second Phase: Road to the Border
Appeal to Motorists

First Phase: Proefplaas to Pumulani

The first project covers the stretch between the Proefplaas Interchange and the Pumulani Main Line Plaza. Preparatory work began in August 2025, with full-scale construction scheduled to start on 1 October 2025 and expected to finish by November 2026.

The R276 million contract, awarded to Roadmac Surfacing, involves:

Removal and reconstruction of pavement layers
Crack sealing
Overlaying of the full carriageway

Work will take place both day and night. Lane closures will be carefully managed to minimize disruption, with all lanes kept open during peak travel times (5:30–9:30 am southbound, and 3:00–6:30 pm northbound). Outside these hours, one lane in each direction may be closed.

Second Phase: Road to the Border

The second rehabilitation project targets a key stretch of the N1 leading towards the Limpopo border. This 21-month contract, also awarded to Roadmac Surfacing, is valued at R324 million. Site establishment will begin in September 2025, with construction scheduled from January 2026 until June 2027.

This phase includes:

Full-depth reconstruction of pavement layers
Crack sealing
Complete overlaying of the roadway

Due to the scale of the project, traffic will be managed with stop/go systems and lane closures of about 5km at a time. Drivers are urged to allow extra travel time and prepare for possible delays.

Appeal to Motorists

Bakwena COO, Solly Kganyago, expressed appreciation to road users for their understanding during the construction period, saying:

“We thank our communities and motorists for their patience and cooperation as we undertake these vital improvements to ensure safer and more efficient travel.”