The multi-billion rand N2 Wild Coast project in Bhisho will be rolled out in a few months.
That was the word from the Minister of Transport, Joe Maswanganyi, following his meeting on Thursday with Eastern Cape Premier, Phumulo Masualle and the MEC for Transport, Weziwe Tikina.
The N2 Wild Coast project is one of the 18 Strategic Integrated Project (SIP 3) that was approved by Cabinet.
Maswangayi said the contractors would be starting with the construction of the two bridges which will cost R3.5bn followed by the construction of the road next year.
The road will include two mega-bridge structures on the Msikaba and Mtentu Rivers, Seven additional major river bridges and five interchange bridges.
He said the remainder of the project comprises the upgrading the existing roads with the R61 already underway.
"We see the N2 Wild Coast as not only a road project but catalyst for other developments. Economically, the project will result in significantly faster delivery times and lower transportation costs in terms of freight. It will improve mobility and connectivity between provinces and towns within and between provinces," Maswangayi said.
Maswangayi said the Wild coast has a lot of tourism potential and the project will improve access, mobility and attractiveness for tourists. "Also, it will open up the provinces agricultural potential by improving access to markets through an improved road," he added.
He said the project will also yield significant local SMME/business opportunities, both directly and indirectly by SANRAL ensuring that local SMME's are involved through several measures.
Maswangani said the positive economic impact will be felt by places such as Port St Johns, Lusikisiki and Mzamba, as well as towns such as Flagstaff, Bizana and Holy Cross.
The total budget required for the N2 Wild Coast Road Greenfields portion is approximately R8.5bn to R9bn.
The funding for the two bridges has already been made available through the Department of Transport.
The Wild Coast N2 project is not without its detractors. Residents in the Xolobeni area near Port St Johns have mobilised under the banner of the Amadiba Crisis Committee in opposition to the N2 project as well as titanium mining on the dunes at Xolobeni.
The chairperson of the ACC, Sikosipi "Bazooka" Rhadebe was gunned down last year. No arrests were made in connection with his murder.
