The Democratic Alliance welcomed the commitment by the CEO of SANRAL, Reginald Demana, to formulate a plan to deal with the dangerous state of the R75 in the Nelson Mandela Bay area following communication from them on the issue.
Demana made this commitment on Friday, February 9, 2024, during an interview with SAFM.
This follows a letter highlighting the dangers of the R75 that was sent to him on January 15, 2024 by DA NMB Caucus Leader, Councillor Retief Odendaal. Demana acknowledged receipt of Councillor Odendaal’s letter.
DA Eastern Cape Provincial Chairperson, Yusuf Cassim MPL said, “There are currently no operational traffic lights and no safe pedestrian crossings along the R75 between Gqeberha and Kariega. Hundreds of meters of damaged guardrails are also strewn along the route.
“This stretch of road is vital to the economy of Nelson Mandela Bay as it is a main route for transporting goods. Additionally, it is a very important road for the transport of children to and from school and provides access to the city for those seeking employment.”
“Traffic jams during peak hours negatively impact the jobs of residents and are also the cause of numerous accidents, posing a massive danger to our children. I have referred the matter to the DA Shadow Minster of Transport, Dr Chris Hunsinger, who is taking the issue up in National Parliament.
We have also highlighted the dangerous state of the R335 between Motherwell and Addo and will continue to apply pressure until we are satisfied that SANRAL has a credible plan and that the budget is available to secure the maintenance of both these roads,” he concluded.
