MORE than 80 per cent of street lights on the N2/Mount Edgecombe interchange have been affected by vandalism and theft.

That’s according to Zakhele Mthethwa, Eastern region project manager) for South African National Roads Agency SOC Ltd (SANRAL).

Construction on the interchange project, worth R816-million, began in 2013 and was completed in 2018, however, in the past year and a half street lights on the interchange have been vandalised and in some cases cut down completely in order to steal street light fixtures.

In a written response to Northglen News, Mthethwa said the agency intended on replacing the vandalised lights and would be looking at implementing lighting technology which incorporates advanced security features.

Read also: Suspect arrested for tampering with street light pole on M41 near uMhlanga

“SANRAL has been working with law enforcement authorities on an ongoing basis for a number of years to address vandalism to national road infrastructure throughout the province, with particular emphasis on electrical infrastructure. More than 80 per cent of the lights at the interchange have been affected and the damage caused by the vandals is substantial.

“The agency is in the process of procuring and implementing lighting technology which incorporates advanced security features in order to mitigate future damage. The modus operandi of the thieves/vandals has changed over time from interfering with locking mechanisms to cutting poles,” Mthethwa said.

He added SANRAL is investing in technology to support law enforcement activities.

Related to story: Mt Edgecombe N2 interchange flyover opens

“The responsibility for maintenance varies depending on whether the lighting is on the national, provincial or municipal road network. SANRAL enters into service level agreements with the other levels of government depending on the circumstances. As this is public infrastructure, law enforcement authorities are responsible for security. In addition SANRAL is investing in technology solutions to support law enforcement activities,” he said.

* Notice: Coronavirus reporting at Caxton Local Media aims to combat fake news

Dear reader, As your local news provider, we have the duty of keeping you factually informed on Covid-19 developments. As you may have noticed, mis- and disinformation (also known as “fake news”) is circulating online. Caxton Local Media is determined to filter through the masses of information doing the rounds and to separate truth from untruth in order to keep you adequately informed. Local newsrooms follow a strict pre-publication fact-checking protocol. A national task team has been established to assist in bringing you credible news reports on Covid-19. Readers with any comments or queries may contact National Group Editor Irma Green (irma@caxton.co.za) or Legal Adviser Helene Eloff (helene@caxton.co.za)  

 You can also sign up for news alerts on Telegram. Send us a Telegram message (not an SMS) with your name and surname (ONLY) to 060 532 5532. 

For more from Northglen News follow us on Facebook or Twitter. You can also follow us on Instagram