‘Crucial oversight’ leads to major delay in St Lucia roadworks

A ‘crucial oversight’ in the preliminary work by engineers and investigators has resulted in major delays in the reconstruction of the R618 between Mtuba and St Lucia.

Vital for tourism – by the Department of Transport’s (DoT) own admission – the road was reduced to one lane early last year after a portion washed away during flooding.

DoT spokesperson Kwanele Ncalane expressed regret over the delay, citing the potential impact on the road’s design.

He mentioned that the overlooked element could be water-related, although he could not recall specifics.

Ncalane disclosed that engineers and designers are compelled to restart investigations to ensure the road’s structural integrity.

Consultants are being enlisted to re-evaluate the construction, focusing on preventing future collapses once the work is completed.

The DoT is actively engaging with stakeholders, including the contractor and consultant, to expedite the repair process.

Addressing concerns about reported payment disputes in 2023, Ncalane said these are between the employer and employees, but assured the DoT would investigate further.

Ncalane acknowledged that delays in contractor payments might occur due to necessary validation processes.

“These processes include inspecting the completed work to ensure it meets satisfactory standards,” he said.

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