Delayed contractor payment could see Mzimkhulu River bridge closed tomorrow (Friday)
According to the KZN Department of Transport, it is a 'matter of pressing a button' to make payment.
The Mzimkhulu River bridge could be closed to traffic tomorrow (September 11) as the KZN Department of Transport (DoT) has not paid the contractor.
At a stakeholders’ meeting held at Ray Nkonyeni Municipality Council Chambers earlier today (September 10), Yena Uyabusa Director Gerard Peters said the department has two outstanding payments.
According to DoT, it is a matter of pressing a button, and the contractor will be paid.
Furthermore, DoT’s Chief Engineer Mcebo Gumede said the department has not categorically stated that the bridge will be completed by the end of September. Instead, it will be handed over as ‘practical completion’, meaning it will be safe to use and open.
The revised date for all work on the bridge to be completed is October 4.
Also, Jamjo Civils, the contractor for the R102, has challenged the termination of its contract.
It is believed that Jamjo wants to save the project and that termination is a last resort.
However, DoT’s Chief Director Muzi Sithole said Jamjo will not be reinstated and that a new contractor is being sought.
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