Thursday, 15 December 2011

Kwambo interchange delayed

The new interchange on the N2 KwaMbonambi intersection is seven months behind schedule

The construction of the new interchange at the KwaMbonambi intersection on the N2 is behind schedule and is now due to be completed in August 2012. This is an additional seven months on the original estimate of January next year. The anticipated deviation of traffic from the N2 into Kwambonambi is only likely to take place at the end of January. According to the South African National Roads Agency SOC Limited (SANRAL) this is largely because of the country-wide bitumen shortage. The majority of the earthworks and a large proportion of the interchange ramps are complete apart from the asphalt surfacing, which is dependent on bitumen availability.

Topsoil and grass are currently being placed on certain areas within the interchange to protect them from erosion. The interchange bridge is complete apart from the deck spanning the N2. In order to construct this, it will be necessary to close the N2 and divert traffic onto the future ramps that are currently under construction. This is likely to happen towards the end of February. Speed monitoring devices have been installed on the N2 at each end of the construction site. The SANRAL is requesting motorists to observe the speed limits and exercise caution when travelling through the construction zone. SANRAL apologises for any inconvenience that may be caused during the construction works.