Transport minister offically opens Ballito intersection

The third major intersection in KwaZulu-Natal was officially opened today on the N2, Ballito by the Minister of Transport, Dipuo Peters accompanied by KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Willies Mchunu and MEC for Transport, Community Safety and Liaison,  Mxolisi Kaunda.

The 186 million investment is one of the South African National Roads Agency Limited’s (SANRAL) major projects and aims to eliminate traffic congestion, long delays and accidents.

The interchange was completed in July 2014 after three years of construction.

Minister Peters said reducing roadside accidents was a top priority for the department.

“This is Mandela month and we are doing this in memory of him and the value he placed on people’s lives,” said Peters.

The official opening incorporated placing wreaths in remembrance of the people who lost their lives in two major accidents that took place at near the interchange last year. The first wreath was placed for Deputy Mayor of Uthungulu District Municipality, Thulani Mashaba who died in a car crash near the Ballito turn-off.

The second accident took place when a taxi crashed down an embankment at the Shaka’s Head off-ramp and landed on railway tracks – before being hit by an oncoming passenger train. Sixteen people were killed.

Peters said South Africa’s road death toll of 23.5 per 100 000 of the population, was way above the global average.

“Most fatal crashes involve young men and speed and alcohol are largely to blame,” said Peters.

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