These projects, which began in 2021, aim to improve infrastructure while creating job opportunities and supporting local communities.
The R25 billion N2 and N3 highway construction projects in KwaZulu-Natal are set to deliver significant socioeconomic benefits, the South African National Roads Agency SOC Limited (Sanral) has confirmed.
These projects, which began in 2021, aim to improve infrastructure while creating job opportunities and supporting local communities.
Seven major projects are underway on the N3 between Durban and Pietermaritzburg, with two more on the N2 at the EB Cloete Interchange (Spaghetti Junction) and near KwaMashu and Umdloti in eThekwini Municipality.
Dudley Mbambo, Sanral’s eastern region acting manager, highlighted the positive socio-economic impact of the upgrades.
“These projects not only improve safety and traffic flow but also create employment opportunities for local communities,” said Mbambo.
Local labour has been prioritised, with R333,6million allocated for wages over the five-year contract period.The R1,2 billion KwaMashu Interchange to Umdloti project, started in August 2021, is scheduled for completion in late 2025.
In addition to improving road safety, the project includes a pedestrian bridge on the M41 to protect residents who need to cross the highway “Ensuring the safety of all road users, including pedestrians, is essential,” Mbambo said, adding that many households are situated near the highway, making the bridge a critical addition.
The R5 billion EB Cloete Interchange project, which began in May 2023, has already reached 15% completion as of July.
It will increase the interchange’s capacity from 20 lanes to 32, improving traffic flow and road safety.
The project also brings further employment to the region, contributing to local economic development.
Meanwhile, the R4,57 billion upgrade of the N3 between Key Ridge and Hammarsdale, which started in May 2023, aims to realign a portion of the highway to improve safety and reduce accidents.
This upgrade will modernise the 40-year-old pavement and transform the road into a five-lane dual carriageway, benefiting traffic flow for the next 30 years. The project will provide further socioeconomic benefits, with at least R392 million earmarked for local labour and R1,1 billion subcontracted to small, medium, and micro enterprises.
Sanral’s focus on transformation ensures that a significant portion of the budget is invested in local businesses and employment, helping to uplift the region’s economy during these developments.
Credit: The Witness - Khethukuthula Xulu
Comentários