The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport is set to invest over R23 billion in the construction and maintenance of infrastructure projects, with a significant portion earmarked for Newcastle and its neighbouring towns.
In his budget speech on Thursday, 20 April 2023, MEC Sipho Hlomuka announced that the Department will spend R9.2 billion in the current financial year, with R4.4 billion allocated to new road and bridge projects, and R3.9 billion for maintenance of existing projects.
MEC Hlomuka highlighted the budget allocations for various districts in KZN, including the Amajuba District which includes Newcastle, Utrecht, and Dannhauser Municipalities, set to receive R519 million in 2023/2024, R454 million in 2024/2025, and R451 million in 2025/2026. The uMzinyathi District Municipality, comprising Dundee, Msinga, Nquthu, and uMvoti, will receive R425 million, R772 million, and R803 million for the same respective years. The uThukela District Municipality, comprising Estcourt, Bergville, and Ladysmith, is set to receive R808 million, R999 million, and R748 million.
MEC Hlomuka emphasized the Department’s commitment to promoting accessibility and safe movement of people, goods, and services through sustainable and integrated transport infrastructure that supports social empowerment and economic growth.
He also mentioned the Department’s efforts in resolving taxi violence by working closely with taxi associations to prevent disputes and bloodshed.
“We have proactively engaged and prevented bloodshed in many associations. Our programme of amalgamating taxi associations has helped in stabilising the industry. This is changing the culture that disputes in the industry are resolved through the barrel of a gun,” said MEC Hlomuka.
With the Department of Transport’s focus on enhancing local roads and resolving taxi violence, stakeholders and community members are encouraged to share their views and opinions in the comment section below. The investment in road infrastructure is expected to bring positive changes and hopefully result in a smoother ride for motorists in Newcastle and its surrounding areas in the next three years.
