THE six-month proposed Bayhead Road Rehabilitation project will run from June 3 until December 15.

The aim of the project is to restore the road infrastructure to acceptable standards, enhance safety and improve the overall efficiency of port-related transport operations.

The project will be carried out in two distinct phases, each lasting about three months. This phased approach aims to ensure efficient implementation while minimising disruption to traffic.

Bayhead Road is one of South Africa’s busiest and most vital freight routes, with many cars including heavy goods vehicles using it.

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The project arises in response to growing community concerns, particularly from residents of The Bluff and surrounding areas who have been calling for stricter measures against heavy-load vehicles using residential roads.

These trucks have been observed staging along neighbourhood streets, prompting public outcry due to safety concerns.

Residents had also reported instances of trucks travelling on one-way streets –further heightening fears about road safety in these residential areas.

In response to the questions sent by the Sun, Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) said a comprehensive Traffic Management Plan (TMP) will be in effect throughout the project to ensure safe and smooth traffic flow.

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“TNPA’s Port of Durban has conducted extensive consultations with various stakeholders, including terminal operators, eThekwini municipal officials, traffic departments and the police.

“These discussions were centred on aligning safety protocols, traffic management plans, and emergency access requirements. TNPA remains committed to maintaining transparent communication and ensuring stakeholder inclusion throughout the construction period to address community needs and feedback proactively,” said Transnet in a statement.

A comprehensive TMP will be implemented during construction to ensure the safety of road users, workers, and pedestrians while maintaining efficient traffic flow.

The plan includes the following:

• The first phase of the project will address the inbound lanes, while the second phase will focus on the outbound lanes. To minimise congestion, all outbound traffic will be diverted to the ByPass Road during both phases.
• To enhance safety, eThekwini Metro police and TNPA Security will be deployed at critical intersections to monitor traffic and assist with enforcement.
• The TMP will also utilise advance warning signs, electronic message boards, and marked detour routes to guide motorists through temporary traffic patterns. Additionally, trained traffic marshals will be stationed at key points to manage flow and assist motorists.

The project is expected to create employment opportunities for local communities and support the empowerment of local small businesses.

“Although the project is machinery-intensive, we will prioritise the use of local labour during the construction phase by offering job opportunities in areas such as general labour and traffic management. Furthermore, the procurement of materials will be sourced from local suppliers where possible to further support local economic development,” the statement read.

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