Over R77 million to be spent on flood-damaged road in KZN

All smiles as KZN Department of Transport MEC Sipho Hlomuka hands over a R77 million worth project to a contractor repairing the R74

Sep 7, 2022 - 21:25
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Over R77 million to be spent on flood-damaged road in KZN

Over R77 million is set to be spent in the reconstruction of the flood-damaged R74 in KwaZulu-Natal.

R77 MILLIION THE BUDGET TO REPAIR THE R74

On Tuesday, 6 September, KZN MEC Sipho Hlomuka, accompanied by iLembe District Mayor councillor Thobani Shandu, leadership of the taxi industry, traditional leadership and local community. launched the R77 million road project which will benefit the community of KwaMaphumalo, north of the province.

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“The community of KwaMaphumulo will soon travel with ease again after the Department of Transport officially handed over a contractor that will repair R74 which was severely damaged during the December 2021 floods,” said Kwanele Ncalane, the department’s spokesperson.

SIX MONTHS TO REPAIR THE FLOOD-DAMAGED ROUTE


The heavy rains resulted in a formation of a sinkhole which led to the road being officially closed. This forced motorists to take a detour via the KwaMaphumulo Central Business District which caused travel delays and road congestions.

“The reconstruction of R74 at a cost of over R77 million, will include the building of a bridge to ensure the safety of motorists.”

Ncalane

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He added that the construction has resumed and is expected to take six months.

KZN MEC for Transport Community Safety and Liaison, Mr Sipho Hlomuka on site. Photo: KZN Dept of Transport/ Supplied.


This road is strategic for the provincial economy as it is used by a lot of heavy vehicles to transport agricultural produce. This road also links the town of KwaDukuza, KwaMaphumulo, Kranskop and Greytown and also serves as a feeder to the N2.

MEC for Transport, Community Safety and Liaison Sipho Hlomuka said the repair of this road is essential in opening up the economy of the district and the economy of the province.

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“The reconstruction of this section is important in restoring the livelihood of the people of KwaMaphumulo and all those who are using this strategic road. This also confirmed our commitment of fixing all roads that were affected by the floods. This project will create jobs and create opportunities to emerging contractors. The Community must protect this project and not allow people to disrupt the construction,” he explained.