GQEBERHA – A key route linking industrial and residential areas across Nelson Mandela Bay is set for a R4.7 million refurbishment after years of flood damage and increasing traffic volumes.

Work has started on the M17, which connects Motherwell and Markman’s industrial areas with Swartkops, KwaZakhele, New Brighton and Zwide.

Flooding over the past three years has taken a toll on the road, while heavy-duty and regular traffic have further worsened its condition in recent months.

According to the municipality, the deteriorating road has created a high-risk environment for motorists and increased the potential for accidents. Planned work includes resurfacing sections of the M17 and repairing parts of its stormwater drainage system.

Executive Mayor Babalwa Lobishe said that the M17 was among the metro’s most economically active routes, carrying public and commercial vehicles around the clock.

“The current condition of the road, which was caused by flooding, has been posing a serious risk to motorists.”

Lobishe said improving the road network was also important for supporting the local economy and ensuring residents could travel safely while goods were transported efficiently.

Repairs target flood damage and heavy traffic

Funding for the project comes from the municipality’s R60 million Fill the Bay Programme, which targets pothole repairs and the resurfacing of damaged roads across Nelson Mandela Bay.

Municipal officials said funding was available and contractors had already been appointed.

Lobishe said the project also reflected the District Development Model, under which different spheres of government work together to improve service delivery and implement catalytic projects.

Work is expected to take about four weeks, weather permitting.

Looking further ahead, a feasibility study is under way to investigate expanding the M17 to accommodate its high traffic volumes and improve safety.

Serving both economic and residential areas, the route links key parts of the metro, including Motherwell and the former Ibhayi area.

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