Little to hope for with N2 roadworks

The N2 freeway between Ballito and Tinley Manor is still a contentious issue, and local residents are taking a stand towards the promises made by the South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL).

SANRAL released information late last year indicating that workmen would be actively on site by the first quarter, but people who have heard the department make empty promises over the years are having none of it.

Nishkar Maharaj, a Stanger resident for over 30 years, travels the road daily and echoes the sentiments of people who use the freeway each day.

“SANRAL stated that work will commence by the first quarter 2020. We are already in the last month of the first quarter with no sight of a contractor or signage of any kind at site,” said Maharaj.

“I have been given similar responses before, stating that a proforma tender was given out in May 2019 and a contractor would be on site by August 2019. It was then stated that due to delays a contractor would be on site by end of 2019. This has not materialised.”

According to SANRAL, they have remained firm in their commitment that small to medium enterprises (SMEEs) need to be appointed to clear this stage of work negotiations, but residents fear this has been left too late, leaving the incomplete roadworks for a further delay.

“I am aware of many accidents in which lives were lost on numerous occasions. I feel that the concrete barriers and the sudden narrowing of the lanes due to the construction are particularly dangerous,” said Maharaj.

In a response to Maharaj’s concerns, SANRAL eastern sector regional manager, Dumisani Nkabinde, said the matter had not been concluded but expected a result soon.

“Work will continue for a period of 10 months,” said Schooling.

SANRAL has promised to complete the road repairs by February 2021, effectively a year from now, however Maharaj claims this is old news.

“SANRAL has responded to emails fairly promptly however actions speak louder than words, and what is said versus what is done is chalk and cheese. I have no faith in the service provider as I am aware that I am not the only citizen concerned and who has written to SANRAL, yet there has been such a long delay in the reappointment of the project,” claims Maharaj.

The first quarter of 2020 will end at March 31, which according to SANRAL, is where locals can expect to see work taking place.

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