Construction World January 2023

Information and communication technology: B Although the general condition of physical ICT infrastructure in South Africa is good, theft and/or vandalism is cause for concern. The overall grade of SouthAfrica’s public infrastructure: D Factors influencing the gradings include crime and non-payment for services, inadequate infrastructure management and maintenance, and weak institutions lacking appropriate skills and accurate data contribute towards a further decline in the overall infrastructure condition since the last IRC. However the report indicates that there are reasons for optimism as many managers, professionals and skilled and unskilled workers persevere in their tasks to improve things. While increased access to improved sanitation, drinking water, electricity, and transport have increased. It has placed these systems under immense pressure. SAICE President Professor Marianne Vanderschuren adds: “We strive to enable our members and the greater engineering industry to provide society with environmentally and economically sustainable infrastructure. We believe that the IRC is the most effective tool the institution possesses to uphold and advance the professional ethics of the civil engineering profession.” She says the institution will avail itself to the government and the public to discuss the findings in the IRC4 and engage developing the best solutions to help South Africa grow forward. Amod and Dr. Wall also express their hope that the IRC report will inform and influence all South Africans about the importance of protecting and enhancing the physical infrastructure that is so critical to daily existence and our common prosperity. “We hope that it contributes to the improved use of infrastructure funding, especially for preventative maintenance. We expect that it will stimulate debate on the matters raised herein by the professionals who grapple daily with meeting the infrastructure needs of a nation.” 

repair, and rehabilitation system. • Commercial ports: B- • Fishing harbours: B

Oil and gas pipelines: B - The pipelines are inspected and maintained as rigorously as their location permits.

Rail: Safety and security have deteriorated quickly, and fewer trains are dispatched yearly due to infrastructure,

process, and systems issues. • Heavy haul freight lines: B- • General freight lines: C- • Branch lines: E • PRASA passenger lines: E • Gautrain: A

Electricity: Peak demand for Eskom electricity has declined slowly over the last 10 years. It reflects the increasing unreliability of supply, increasing tariffs, and the increasing availability of alternative sources of electricity. • Eskom generating infrastructure: D- • Eskom transmission network: B • Local distribution: D Healthcare: The Ideal Clinic Programme has yielded positive results in some provinces over the past few years. • Hospitals: D+ • Clinics: D Fire: (no grading available) Municipal fire protection services are inadequate, and public sector buildings are not compliant with fire safety regulations. Education: Dramatically increased student intakes have placed a severe burden on infrastructure. Also, considerable damage is caused by vandalism and student protests. • Public ordinary schools: D • Universities: C+ • TVET colleges: D+

13 CONSTRUCTION WORLD JANUARY 2023