Motorists fed-up with non-functional traffic lights

Non-functional traffic lights in Manaba, Shelly Beach, Port Shepstone and Marburg have made rush-hour dangerous, and motorists are demanding answers from the municipality.

Deon Naidoo of Marburg said traffic lights at two busy intersections, Oscar Borchers and Crescent Street in Umbango, have been non-functional for over a year.

“This intersection has created frustration, congestion and confusion with no intervention from authorities. The Herald reported on these traffic lights several months ago, and to date they are still not operational. Why is there a delay? Why aren’t officials taking this seriously? ” asked Naidoo.

Furthermore, non-functional traffic lights at Bazley Road and R102 (Port Shepstone Regional Hospital) create congestion in the morning and afternoons. Some motorists are not using the intersection as a four-way stop, causing further congestion.

The traffic lights on Marine Drive in Shelly Beach only flashes red, and the one in Manaba has not been working for over a year.

Ward 17 councillor Ajith Rajaram said: “By law, motorists must approach a non-functional or flashing red traffic light as an all-way stop. Stop, yield to vehicles that arrived before you, and proceed only when it is safe to do so. These non-functional traffic lights are becoming death traps, causing daily delays, pedestrian danger and increased accident risk. I only hope it is sorted soon.”

Spokesperson for Ray Nkonyeni Municipality Simon April said the technical team established that controller cards have been damaged at the intersection of the R102 and Bazley Road, and cable theft has contributed to the non-functioning traffic lights in Umbango.

“The municipality has ordered the controller cards and cable. We anticipate that it will be attended to in the new financial year due to high costs. The municipality apologise for the inconvenience,” said April.

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