The new road interchange in Midrand
Image: Supplied
The Gauteng Provincial Government has officially opened the upgraded K101 Road, also known as Old Johannesburg Road, in a move aimed at improving mobility, easing traffic congestion and strengthening economic activity between Johannesburg and Tshwane.
Premier Panyaza Lesufi officially unveiled the completed project, describing it as an important investment in the province’s transport infrastructure. The Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport said the upgraded route is expected to improve road safety, reduce travel times and provide motorists with a viable alternative to the often-congested N1 freeway.
The 5.4-kilometre stretch runs from the D795 Road in Midrand to the N1 at Brakfontein Road, serving as a key transport corridor linking Gauteng’s two largest metropolitan municipalities. The road is used by private motorists, freight operators, buses, taxis, pedestrians and cyclists.
Addressing attendees at the launch, Lesufi said infrastructure development must be accompanied by stronger measures to protect public assets. He called for expanded CCTV surveillance, tougher law enforcement and better coordination between government agencies to combat crime, vandalism and the destruction of public infrastructure.
He also stressed that infrastructure investment should create tangible economic opportunities, particularly for young people struggling to find employment.
Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport Kedibone Diale-Tlabela said the project demonstrates how strategic infrastructure investment can improve residents’ quality of life while supporting broader economic development.
“The K101 Road Upgrade Project stands as a practical demonstration of how infrastructure can change lives. It is not only about roads, bridges and traffic signals, but about connecting communities to opportunities, improving mobility, enhancing safety, and supporting economic development,” she said.
Diale-Tlabela added that continued investment in transport infrastructure is essential to support Gauteng’s rapid urban growth.
“As the region continues to grow, it is our responsibility to ensure that transport infrastructure keeps pace with development and supports the efficient movement of people and goods.”
Construction of the project began in October 2022 after traffic volumes along the corridor increased significantly. Daily vehicle movements have risen from about 20,000 to more than 30,000, with buses and taxis accounting for nearly one-third of the traffic, highlighting the route’s importance to public transport users.
According to the Department of Roads and Transport, the completed project includes:
Provincial officials said the improvements are expected to ease congestion, improve traffic flow and enhance connectivity between residential, commercial and industrial areas. The inclusion of pedestrian walkways, cycling lanes, improved lighting and upgraded traffic signals is also expected to make the corridor safer for all road users.
The provincial government said the project delivered benefits beyond the upgraded infrastructure.
During construction, 127 community members received technical skills training, while 53 participants completed programmes aimed at strengthening small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs). The project also created employment opportunities for local workers and emerging contractors.
With construction now complete, the Gauteng Provincial Government has urged residents to help safeguard the new infrastructure by reporting acts of vandalism, illegal dumping and any damage to roads or public facilities along the corridor.
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