Ntshingwayo (Chelmsford) Dam, a cherished retreat for many Northern KwaZulu-Natal residents, currently faces a pressing issue as a significant section of the Normandien Road leading to the dam, has severely deteriorated, posing a hazard to motorists.
Newcastillian News brought attention to the deplorable state of the roads on 18 January 2023, highlighting a local farmer’s concerns about the road’s drastic decline over the past three years, transforming it from an eyesore to a life threatening concern.
Although the road falls under the jurisdiction of the Newcastle Municipality, Councillor Faizel Cassim clarified that the road is the responsibility of the Provincial Department of Transport, which is tasked with maintaining and repairing the road.
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However, as residents await an official response from the necessary departments, a local farmer has taken matters into his own hands to repair the damaged road.
Proactive farmer, Bertus Pretorius, and his team spent a day repairing sections of the road. “My guys and I were there from 7 am until 3 pm, and we managed to repair 12 potholes,” shared Pretorius.
Additionally, an anonymous local businessman expressed interest in contributing to the repair efforts. “A lot of Newcastle residents love Ntshingwayo Dam, but the road has become a hazard, and something needs to be done.”
With the businessman mobilising support from two other businesses, he stressed the importance of conducting an assessment before commencing the repair work.
Sponsorships for the project are anticipated to be confirmed in the coming week.
While the private sector takes steps to address the 10km stretch of damaged road, Pretorius insisted, “The Government needs to come to the party and fix the road, as the trucks are going to damage it again.”
Councillor Faizel Cassim from Newcastle Municipality confirmed that the matter had been escalated to the relevant official departments. “The road is a hazard, and a letter has been sent to the necessary departments to ensure the road is addressed,” stated Cassim.
As the Newcastle Municipality awaits feedback, the private sector’s efforts to repair the road are expected to continue during the week. Motorists are urged to exercise caution as local farmers collaborate to make the road safe for all.
Coals trucks in the areas damage the roads and the farmers repairs them.Why?Same thing going to happen on the D95 towards Valintaba with the mines that they want to start there.