The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport and the South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL) have introduced a contractor to resume the repairs of the M4 Tongaat River bridge in Ballito, which was damaged during the April 2022 floods.
The closure of the bridge impacted negatively on communities and businesses in Zimbali, Ballito, Salt Rock, Shaka’s Head and other locations within the KwaDukuza Local Municipality.
It also affected residences and businesses along the M4 in Westbrook and Tongaat, as they had to take longer routes.
KwaZulu-Natal Transport MEC Sipho Hlomuka said the bridge was the main remaining strategic route, with access cut completely.
The M4 Tongaat River Bridge also provides an alternative route to the N2.
“Repairing the bridge will be part of the first phase and will ensure that motorists are able to travel safely. The design for a safer long-term structure will also commence concurrently,” Hlomuka said.
In other projects, including the N2, other sections of the M4 and the R102, Hlomuka said mobility has been restored and there are active sites where work is underway.
Meanwhile, the department said the N3 Toll Route at Van Reenen's Pass has been reopened to traffic after six trucks were torched by a group of gunmen at the weekend. – SAnews.gov.za
