‘Death trap’ traffic lights concern in Umbango and Izotsha
Motorists are calling for urgent repairs to traffic lights at the busy intersections.
Traffic lights at two busy intersections, Oscar Borchers Road and Crescent Street in Umbango and Izotsha, are non-functional and there are concerns they could turn into ‘death traps’. This has created frustration, congestion and confusion.
The problem has persisted for several months, with no intervention from authorities.
Fathima Moosa, the chairperson of the Marburg Residents’ and Ratepayers’ Association, said when traffic lights are out of order, the intersection must be treated as a four-way stop.
“The first vehicle to arrive has the right of way. But this is not the case at Oscar Borchers Road and Crescent Street. On Monday this week, I noticed several motorists speed across the intersection without stopping. What is shocking is that school children were in some of these vehicles. Are we waiting for an accident or someone to die to get this fixed? ”
The Oscar Borchers intersection sees traffic from schools which include RA Engar Primary, Jai Hind Primary, Marburg Primary, Port Shepstone Secondary, Port Shepstone Primary and Port Shepstone Islamic School.
“There is no law and order, and I appeal to law enforcement to at least post traffic officials during peak times. Residents have noticed that authorities are not acting with sufficient urgency to repair these broken lights, which has led to a public outcry about safety,” said Moosa.
On examining the traffic light infrastructure at Oscar Borchers on Monday, one can clearly notice that it has been vandalised as copper wire had been stripped.
Another concern is the Izotsha intersection at Izotsha Primary School. “The non-functional traffic lights create congestion in the mornings and after school rush hour. Traffic is backed up and motorists get frustrated. It’s a ‘death trap’ and one of these days it might lead to bad news. Why isn’t law enforcement assigned to this intersection?” asked Moosa.
A motorist who frequently uses the P200 and Izotsha Road said he is fed-up with the lack of duty officers at this intersection.
“We need them to control traffic during peak hours. We often see them standing by their law enforcement vehicles and watch the disorder. Only yesterday (Wednesday) I saw officers manually manage the busy intersection.”
A Bomela resident said traffic police is required to manage these intersections to ensure the safe flow of vehicles and pedestrians. “It is becoming too dangerous and I only hope that it gets fixed soon,” she said.
Ray Nkonyeni Municipality was contacted for comment, but none was received at the time of going to press.
HAVE YOUR SAY
Like the South Coast Herald’s Facebook page, follow us on Twitter and Instagram
