More than two years after a large sinkhole formed near Shaka’s Head, there is still no confirmed timeline for repairs, prompting growing frustration among residents, motorists and businesses.

The affected section of the P339 near Imbonini Park is a critical access route for surrounding industrial areas and is regularly used by heavy trucks. The continued deterioration of the road now poses a serious safety hazard to both drivers and pedestrians.

The sinkhole, located at the junction of the R102 and the entrance to Shaka’s Head, first appeared during the April 2022 floods. Further damage was reported after heavy rains in January 2023, but to date, no repair work has started.

KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport spokesperson Ndabenhle Sibiya said the department is aware of the problem and blamed ongoing delays due to persistent rainfall and underperforming contractors.

“We are also dealing with contractors that have failed to deliver – something that is tarnishing the good name of the department,” he said.

While no date has been confirmed for when repairs will begin, MEC Siboniso Duma is expected to outline plans for road maintenance across the province during his upcoming budget speech on Friday, 25 April.

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