EMERGENCY services and police will soon have quicker access to the rural population of Mbangayiya Reserve in eShowe after the completion of a 8.9km road construction project.

uMlalazi Mayor Thelumoya Zulu officially marked the beginning of the project during a sod turning ceremony on Tuesday.

According to Zulu, the new road will improve mobility, create a sense of place, allow faster access for emergency vehicles and bring relief to commuters and motorists.

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Up to now this rural community has been struggling with a pothole-riddled dirt road.

‘This construction will advance the state of the road and include overpass bridges which will improve safety,’ said Zulu.

Zulu introduced the responsible contractor and consultants for the construction.

He also confirmed the upgrade would provide employment for locals.