KZN Transport MEC to officiate construction of R78 Million bridge that adjoins two municipalities
KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport, Community Safety and Liaison, Mr Willies Mchunu, and Mayor of KwaDukuza Municipality, Ricardo Mthembu, will on Tuesday, 23 June 2015, officiate a sod turning ceremony to mark the commencement of the R78 Million vehicle bridge project that will link the community of Mdlebeni in KwaDukuza and Mankenganeni in uMlalazi Municipality.
The facility will facilitate a significant increase of tourism and economic activity between the two municipalities as it is based on one of the main transit routes for social and economic resources there. At least 270 learners who attend local schools are set to benefit from the project.
The infrastructure will bring about integration and build confidence, to the people of Mdlebeni and Mankenganeni who were in the past, compelled to cross a 2½ meters deep crocodile infested Thukela river on a daily basis to access essential services. This had an adverse effect on the learners’ school results and also saw a decline in school enrolment in the area.
In 2013, a bathing agency which protects beach users against shark attacks, the KwaZulu-Natal KZN Sharks Board Maritime Centre of Excellence donated a massive fibre glass boat to ferry shoppers, learners and to facilitate the exchange of goods from both communities. The facility has contributed to the advancement of the local economy and has promoted beach and marine tourism in the area.
The Tugela river adjoins KwaDukuza and uMlalazi Municipalities and leads to the Indian Ocean.
Mayor Mthembu will accompany KZN MEC for Transport, Community Safety and Liaison, Willies Mchunu and ILembe District Mayor Welcome Mdabe where they are expected to address members of the public about the foregoing.
The details of the event are as follows:
Date: Tuesday, 23 June 2015
Venue: Sakhuxolo Sports Centre, Doringkop, KwaDukuza
Time: 09h00
Media enquiries:
Sifiso Zulu
Cell: 083 370 2840
E-mail: sifisoz@kwadukuza.gov.za
Sphelelo Ngobese
Tel: 032 437 5046
Cell: 073 784 7822
