End in sight for M19 interchange
R512m project delayed by strike action, additional work
IT MIGHT not be a case of “a bridge too far” as the often-delayed M19 interchange heads for the home run.
Motorists who use the awkward temporary intersection – which is usually congested, particularly during frequent robot outages – have been watching with interest as the last pieces of the intricate overhead “puzzle” slot into place.
Logashrie Sewnarain, eastern region manager for Sanral, confirmed this week that the inauguration ceremony for the project will take place in May.
She said there were some finishing touches to be added, but that all was proceeding according to plan.
The spokeswoman said that details for the official opening have yet to be finalised, and the guest of honour will be confirmed in due course.
The proposed name for the interchange is unclear at this stage. “There is still road work to be done on the various ramps and also on a portion of the M19 adjoining the bridge. Barriers must be completed on the various bridges; decks will be surfaced and then signage and road markings will be put in place.
“The ramp bridges will be open to traffic in May, with completion of minor works expected in June.”
While the original estimated cost of the project was R440 million, said Sewnarain, the revised estimate is now R512m. Delays were caused by strike action, and additional work that was requested by Sanral, she said.
“The contractor is paying penalties due to late completion caused by factors other than the agreed changes. This came into effect from September 11, 2014 and will be imposed until the contract is completed.”
When the Sunday Tribune visited the construction site this week, scores of workers were busy with the final touches to a project that promises to remove forever the headache of negotiating travel through the interchange.
Meanwhile, Sewnarain said that work on the N2/M41 Mount Edgecombe interchange north of Durban – where construction began in May 2013 – was also progressing fast.
The project will result in the interchange being upgraded to a four-level, free-flow configuration.
The upgrade is necessary because of the rapid expansion of uMhlanga, La Lucia Ridge and the massive Cornubia mixed housing development.
“The launch from the southern side of the future Mount Edgecombe to Durban ramp has commenced, with construction of the launch yard on the northern side of the ramp. This phase is proceeding steadily,” she said.
“Progress is gaining momentum. However, due to the delays experienced in the early part of the contract, the project is approximately three months behind schedule.”
The price tag of the Mt Edgecombe Interchange is projected to be R186 million, but delays have proved costly.
“While the estimated cost of the work is still within the original budget, contract price escalation – which is linked to inflation – is higher than originally estimated,” said Sewnarain.