Sustainable Road Infrastructure in Rural Areas in South Africa—A Preliminary Study

Abstract

The role of sustainable infrastructures such as roads in the development of any community cannot be overemphasised. Quality and sustainable roads play a vital role in the daily living of individuals. However, roads within the rural areas are in most cases adjudged to be defective and unsustainable, thereby crippling activities within these rural areas. It is based on this notion that this study assessed the possible measures for attaining sustainable road infrastructure within rural communities in Limpopo province, South Africa. The study sought answers from rural dwellers and construction workers within the study area through a questionnaire survey. Data gathered were analysed using percentage, mean item score, standard deviation and one-sample t-test. The reliability of the questionnaire was also tested using Cronbach’s alpha which gave an alpha value of 0.948 which indicates the questionnaire used was reliable. Findings of the study revealed that the most significant measures for attaining more sustainable road constructions within the rural areas include using quality materials that will last the expected lifespan of the road, having planned maintenance, proper investment on road projects, and using contractors and skilled workers with the right experience in road construction. It is believed that the findings of this study will help increase the delivery of sustainable road projects within the rural areas in a bid to provide better standard of living for rural dwellers.