The UIP is greatly concerned with the prolonged periods of non-functionality and delayed repairs to traffic lights by the authorities. The status quo poses a serious safety and reputational risk to Ballito. We understand the frustration and concerns of the public and would like to provide clarity on the current situation and the underlying repair responsibility dynamics.
Ownership and Responsibility
Traffic lights in Ballito do not fall under the jurisdiction of the KwaDukuza Municipality (KDM), but are instead owned and managed by two separate government entities:
- SANRAL (South African National Roads Agency) – responsible for traffic lights on either side of the N2 bridge (national roads).
- Department of Transport (DoT) – responsible for the P445 (main road through Ballito), M4 traffic lights and the R102 Traffic Lights (Umhlali), as these fall under provincial roads.
Role of the Municipality
Although not the responsible authority, KDM has historically carried out maintenance and repairs on these traffic lights under a formal Memorandum of Understanding (MOUs) with SANRAL and the DoT. These MOUs allowed KDM to repair infrastructure and recover the associated costs from the relevant authority.
However, our understanding is that both SANRAL and the DoT have not consistently reimbursed KDM for these repairs, which has led to the Municipality’s current reluctance to continue this role without a renewed agreement in place.
Current Status and Way Forward
The MOUs between the respective parties are currently under review and renewal. Until these agreements are finalised and implemented, the ability of KDM to intervene remains limited.
That said, the UIP recognises the urgent need for reliable traffic signals in Ballito and is engaging proactively to explore how we can assist in facilitating or supporting interim solutions where possible.
We will continue to keep UIP members and public updated as this matter progresses and appreciate your understanding as we working hard to address this complex but critical issue.
