Andile Moshoeshoe 

IMPROPER parking of vehicles along the R56 road was raised as a major concern during a recent meeting attended by municipality and community representatives in Kokstad. A call for urgent intervention was made. The concern was directed towards heavy trucks that were accused of parking along the newly constructed Sanral’s R56 highway.

Speakers at the meeting claimed that the trucks routinely parked near the development entrance, obstructing vehicle movement and creating severe congestion, particularly during peak hours.

Resident Mlamli Gusha raised his frustration and claimed that trucks create congestion: “The worst part is that the trucks are destroying the drains meant to protect the road from running water and erosion.” Gusha also raised a concern over inadequate lighting in parts of the community, calling for the installation of high-mast lights to improve visibility and safety at night.

Despite the frustrations, Gusha commended the municipality for the work already undertaken to develop Kokstad and welcomed major projects planned for the area.

Among developments expected to transform the area is the proposed R200 million Mount Currie Grand Mall, which residents fear could place additional pressure on an already congested road network that was once operational.

Meanwhile, residents consequently proposed an additional bridge to create an alternative access route linking the community with the area around the proposed mall.

They believe an alternative route would reduce pressure on the existing entrance and provide residents with another way of accessing their homes as commercial activity and traffic volumes increase.

The Harry Gwala District Municipality deputy mayor Nosisa Jojozi and Ward 3 councillor Nokuphila Mda responded to issues raised and indicated that some of the matters would be followed up with relevant municipal departments for further attention.