Bridge contractor ‘not paid’
The bridge, closed since March, and due for completion by the end of October has caused major disruption.
Frustration is mounting on the South Coast after locals noticed no activity at the Mzimkhulu River bridge repair site.
A Tweni resident investigated and photographed the equipment (excavators) parked off on the verge on Monday last week.
“The cats are asleep. Just been to the bridge and the only people working are those fabricating the steel for the barriers,” he said.
This has raised concerns about yet another delay in a project, already behind schedule.
Many feel the project is being mismanaged. “It seems they’re just playing in the sand and don’t know what they’re doing,” said one angry business owner. His concerns became valid when work came to a halt this week.
DA councillor Leon Garbade said the contractor hasn’t been paid – a problem not unique to this project.
“The work stoppage is alarming. The project’s already delayed, and now we’re heading into the rainy season. Will it even be done before December, our busiest tourism period?” he asked.
“And what happens to the N2 toll concession in the meantime?”
Garbade has called on the KZN Department of Transport (Dot) to act urgently. “Every day lost affects the local economy and people’s lives. The department must resolve payment issues and get this project back on track.”
The bridge, closed since March, and due for completion by the end of October has caused major disruption. Small and medium-sized businesses on both sides of the river are bearing the brunt and what was once a quick trip across the river has now turned into long detours, costing time and money.
At Tuesday’s provincial budget hearing, MEC for Transport and Human Settlements Siboniso Duma confirmed he’s looking into the issue. “I’ve asked the head of department and CFO for a detailed report on the payment delays.
We are prioritising contractors, especially those in rural and high-poverty areas,” he said.
Dot was contacted for comment, but none was received at the time of going to press.
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