The Ballito Urban Improvement Precinct (BUIP) in collaboration with KwaDukuza Municipality (KDM) Electrical Department, has piloted the first of four backup power solutions for several intersections in Ballito Central. The new project will alleviate traffic issues by ensuring traffic lights operate 24/7 during power cuts.
After substantial research on the best solution, the first inverter was activated on Thursday, 23 March. “We are happy to announce that the first inverter installation at McDonald’s / P445 intersection has been a success, with traffic lights operational and vehicles free flowing throughout planned load shedding, furthermore, there have been several learnings in this first pilot which will be applied to the rollout out going forward” comments Ballito UIP precinct manager, Thierry Leclezio.
Ballito’s growth due to significant private sector investment in recent years has increased traffic on Ballito’s roads. Road user frustration increases when traffic lights are out in key intersections due to load shedding. “Through routine maintenance by the UIP and dedicated precinct security personnel, we are confident that the additional inverters at the Shell / P445, M4 / P445 and Engen/ Ashton intersections will ease backlog and frustration on our roads when the power is out,” says Leclezio.
By collaborating with KwaDukuza Municipality, the Ballito UIP’s mission is to retain existing investment, build investor confidence and improve the quality of life for everyone. Leclezio concludes: “This project will make a big difference to our community by ensuring free-flowing traffic at all times which is essential for economic growth and job creation.”
Off the success of the pilot project, the Ballito UIP hopes to share their learnings with neighbouring precincts and continue to position Ballito as a competitive and sought-after precinct adding to the investment attractiveness of the KZN North Coast.
PHOTO PROVIDED BY THE NORTH COAST COURIER
