TLC for P464, urgent need for signage
Road signs must be in place to ensure the safety of drivers and to manage traffic.
Many have acknowledged the need for urgent repairs to the Mzimkhulu River bridge; however, there are calls for maintenance on the alternative route, Sugar Mill Road (P464), including signage at strategic points.
With the bridge now closed, the P464 caters to a large volume of daily traffic.
A drive on the P464, Batstone’s Drift and Oscar Borchers Road on Tuesday last week revealed that verges are being cut, and the collapsed embankment near the sugar mill has been widened to allow two vehicles to pass easily.
Although welcomed, some motorists claim that the verges are not been properly cleared and more signage needs to be erected to inform motorists of the closure and alternative routes.
Nazir Shaikh, the chairperson of the North Cluster Ratepayers’ and Residents Association, said that road markings are almost non-existent on the P464.
“From Monday last week, there is also no new signage on the R102 in Umtentweni, Louisiana intersection and at Port Shepstone CBD informing motorists of alternative routes. The low-level bridge has no road markings, no barriers, no handrails or edge protection. This bridge is also prone to flooding, and what are the contingency plans if flooding does occur?” asked Nazir.
He added that stormwater overflow and sewage on the roads exacerbate the situation further.
“The verges on Rethman Drive have not been cleared in months, which is a threat to motorists and pedestrians,” said Nazir.
At a meeting held in Port Shepstone last Sunday, the KZN MEC for Transport and Human Settlements, Siboniso Duma, said if the toll waiver is granted, there will be concurrent repairs of the P464, ensuring a safer and more efficient travel route for all users.
The acting spokesperson for Ray Nkonyeni Municipality, Nomusa Zulu, said motorists’ concerns have been noted.
“More signage will be placed at strategic points informing motorists of the closure and alternative routes. Law Enforcement will be at the following intersections – Rethman Drive in Umtentweni, Louisiana intersection, Batstone’s Drift, Aiken and Nelson Mandela Drive leading into Sugar Mill Road. Traffic officers will be stationed at these points during peak hours,” said Zulu.
It has also been confirmed that Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) officers will also assist motorists and conduct road management on the N2 and R102.
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