Construction on the controversial N2 Wild Coast highway project is due to start in September this year, with transport minister Dipuo Peters noting that it is expected to unlock the economic potential of the area.
Along with the Minister of Rural Development and Land Reform, Gugile Nkwinti, Peters met with the political and traditional leadership of the Eastern Cape province last Thursday to discuss the project and address concerns.
Construction of the road means displacing several families, and community members have been vocal in their opposition to the road, saying plans were made without any consultation. The road, managed by the South African National Roads Agency Limited (Sanral), will be tolled.
“This is not only about the road, but will change the entire configuration of the province,” Peters said, pointing out that when the road is complete it will cut down about three hours of travel time between East London and Durban.
The project involves the construction of 410km of road between East London and Mtamvuna which will include nine bridges. Two of those bridges will be mega bridges. The contractor for the construction of the two mega bridges will be on site by the end of the year.
“Construction of the bridges will take two to three years and the road three to four years, which could be shortened if implemented concurrently,” the Department of Transport (DoT) said.
