Back-up plan on the cards for Ballito traffic lights
UIP manager Thierry Leclezio confirmed they were looking to pilot a back-up power solution for several intersections in Ballito central.
The Ballito Urban Improvement Precinct (UIP) and KwaDukuza municipality (KDM) are investigating the possibility of installing inverters to keep traffic lights in Ballito functional 24 hours a day.
According to Ward 30 councillor, Jack Abrahams, the inverters would be installed on the main route in and out of Ballito at the Lifestyle intersection, BP garage and at the McDonald’s traffic lights.
Traffic congestion on Ballito Drive becomes a nightmare during loadshedding, especially during rush hour.
“This will make a huge difference in terms of traffic flow,” said Abrahams.
UIP manager Thierry Leclezio confirmed they were looking to pilot a backup power solution for several intersections in Ballito central.
“With the support of KDM’s electrical department, we are investigating the feasibility of several solutions to ensure our traffic lights operate 24/7.
“Significant private sector investment in Ballito in recent years has drastically increased traffic flow. As a result, road users are left frustrated by the congestion caused by inoperative traffic lights during loadshedding,” said Leclezio.
He said through routine maintenance by the UIP and dedicated precinct security personnel, they are confident the pilot project will prove successful.
iLembe Chamber of Commerce CEO, Cobus Oelofse, said the Ballito UIP needed to be commended for their efforts to put backup power sources and other contingency plans in place.
“Loadshedding is playing havoc with traffic signalling and disrupts traffic flow as a result, leading to frustrating levels of congestion. The loadshedding schedule often coincides with peak hour traffic in our busiest commuter nodes.
“Unfortunately, with the M4 remaining closed and therefore access to Ballito from the south being restricted to the N2, alternative routes are not assisting in avoiding the traffic mayhem,” said Oelofse.
Follow The North Coast Courier on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram & YouTube for breaking news
Telegram Broadcast Service: https://t.me/joinchat/yJULuN8NaCs5OGM0
WhatsApp Broadcast Service: Add The Courier to WhatsApp at 082 792 9405 and WhatsApp your name and surname to be added.
Stay in the loop with The North Coast Courier on Facebook, X, Instagram & YouTube for the latest news.
Mobile users can join our WhatsApp Broadcast Service here, or if you’re on desktop, scan the QR code below.
