Work begins to address traffic issues in port
Bayhead project aims to ease congestion
SOUTH AFRICA: A long-time issue in the Port of Durban is being addressed as Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) begins work on a major road rehabilitation project to reduce congestion on the Bayhead Road which acts as a critical accessway to port terminals, warehouses and industrial facilities.
With an estimated 13,000 vehicles travelling the route daily - nearly half of which are heavy trucks - the road has experienced considerable wear over time, resulting in congestion, delays and safety concerns. The rehabilitation project is a direct response to these challenges and aims to restore the road’s structural integrity while supporting the seamless movement of cargo.
The project, which is likely to take six months, includes milling of the existing asphalt, laying new asphalt in both carriageways, repairing stormwater structures, installing road signs and providing road marking.
“The Bayhead Road is one of South Africa's busiest roads transporting cargo to and from the major container terminals and the Island View port precinct. The ports authority acknowledges the disruption construction will cause and a traffic management plan has been prepared to minimise traffic congestion to ensure smooth operations during construction,” says Nkumbuzi Ben-Mazwi, Acting Port Manager for the Port of Durban.
Port users will need to be patient as traffic is managed through phased lane closures and the use of alternative routes. According to a statement from TNPA, a detailed traffic management plan will be implemented to maintain safe and continuous vehicle flow, supported by clear signage and the presence of traffic officials to guide motorists through the affected areas.
Engagements with key stakeholders will continue to minimise disruptions during this critical upgrade work.
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