Bhisho-Today, Thursday 21 January 2015 the Minister of Transport, Dipuo Peters together with Minister of Rural Development and Land Reform, Mr Gugile Nkwinti in his capacity as the Chairperson of Presidential Infrastructure Coordinating Commission (PICC) met with the Political and Traditional Leadership of the Eastern Cape respectively led by Premier Phumulo Masualle and His Majesty Amampondo King Zanozuko Sigcau on the construction of the N2 Wild Coast Highway.
Minister Peters indicated the project is a culmination of over 14 years of unwavering commitment to realize this historic project, which will not only unlock the economic, tourism and developmental potential of the area, but will most importantly restore the dignity of the people of the area. “This is not only about the road, but will change the entire configuration of the Province”, says the Minister
Some of the highlights of the meeting are as follows:
• The project involves the construction of 410km road between East London and Mtamvuna, including 9 Bridges, of which 2 are mega bridges.
• The area is the most impoverished region in South Africa.
• The road when complete will result in the reduction in distance of 85 km and 3 hours in travel time between East London and Durban.
• The Hybrid funding model is being finalized with the National Treasury
• The Contractor for the construction of the 2 Mega Bridges will be on site by end 2016, much earlier than the anticipated time
• Estimated number of jobs are 7 700 direct jobs and 40 000 indirect jobs
• 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 project is part of SIP 3 and also the 120 days of Action on PICC Infrastructure Projects chaired by the President.
Minister Peters also said that this is a commitment of ANC Government through the Department of Transport and SANRAL to make this project a reality. “This was confirmed by the overwhelming support of more than 98% of the people in the area, and this exciting for us as a government of the people” concluded the Minister
