Concerns mount over degraded Normandien Road to Ntshingwayo (Chelmsford) Dam

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19-01-2024
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New Castillian News
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The Normandien Road leading to the main entrance of Ntshingwayo (Chelmsford) Dam and the town of Normandien has reached deplorable conditions, leaving motorists to navigate their vehicles through a hazardous passage.

Local farmer Bertus Pretorius voiced his concerns, attributing the road’s decline to the establishment of a nearby mine over the past two to three years.

Pretorius expressed frustration, stating, “There are several trucks travelling on the road, and it has not been maintained. I have offered to help repair the road, but I was told it would make the officials look bad.” He further highlighted the perilous state of the road, recounting an incident where a truck nearly overturned on Wednesday (17 January 2024).

As the road falls within the jurisdiction of the Newcastle Municipality, Newcastillian News spoke with a local Councillor to ascertain who was responsible for the upkeep of the road.

Providing insight, Councillor Faizel Cassim, representing the Newcastle Municipality, acknowledged the dire conditions of the road and stated that he had initiated inquiries to determine the responsible authority for repairs.

“I have established that the road falls under the KZN Department of Transport. However, the Newcastle Municipality is now sending a report to request that they address the condition of the road,” clarified Cllr Cassim.

Apart from the obvious reasons for the road to be repaired, the route is also a link for holidaygoers to Chelmsford Dam. With the road in such a state, problems arise for motorists to get to the longstanding tourist destination, especially if towing a boat or trailer. As one community member stated, “You are nervous on that road, even if you are driving a bakkie.”

In response to community members, including Pretorius, offering assistance to tackle local issues, Cassim advocated for collaborations. “I believe we should remove the red tape so community members can assist in projects, as these issues affect the community, and the Municipality doesn’t have the necessary funds.”

With the Newcastle Municipality taking steps to urge the Department of Transport to address the deteriorating road, public opinions on the matter are welcomed in the comment section below.