Progress noted on bridge repairs
Meanwhile, there is concern about the impending expiration of the toll waiver.
Ratepayers are pleased with the rehabilitation progress on the Mzimkhulu River bridge in Port Shepstone.
With the deadline of December 2 looming, there has been mixed feelings whether the construction will be completed in the stipulated time or not.
This was evident at a recent stakeholders’ meeting held at Ray Nkonyeni Municipal Council Chambers, where the business sector said they are not convinced the deadline will be met.
However, on Tuesday last week, the North Cluster Residents’ and Ratepayers’ Association (NCRRA) said it is pleased with the advancement on the project.
NCRRA chairperson Nazir Shaikh visited the site. He noted that the diversion of the river mouth, between pillars 8 and 9, has now been completed, and the sand piling across the river from the Sandspit to the wall has also been finalised.
He said: “We hope that the actual repairs on pillar 2 can now be expedited.”
Meanwhile, there is concern about the impending expiration of the toll waiver.
Shaikh highlighted the lack of updates from National Minister of Transport Barbara Creecy, on whether the waiver will be extended or not. “Residents are apprehensive that the P464 will not sufficiently accommodate the anticipated increase in traffic volume.”
Shaikh also reiterated the public’s urgent appeal for intervention from the KZN MEC for Transport, Siboniso Duma.
Recently, Muzi Sithole, the Head of Durban Regional Transport Department, which Ugu falls under, told stakeholders that the department is awaiting a response from Creecy’s office on the waiver extension.
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