Construction project leads to CBD traffic nightmare
The City said it is scheduled to be complete by December this year.
![](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/49/2021/11/44tzSmithStreet2_40834.jpg)
A DURBAN businesswoman expressed her frustration over the installation of a new pipeline on Anton Lembede Street (Smith Street) that has led to massive traffic congestion.
Two lanes on the busy street in the CBD are closed due to construction. The project involves the installation of a steel water pipe along Anton Lembede Street and forms part of the eThekwini Municipality’s Inner-City Regeneration Strategy.
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Nomusa Nxasane, a business owner who rents a studio on the street, said she realised the team behind the construction was trying to finish the project within the allotted timeframe.
“The traffic is very bad during the day and through rush hour traffic. Often, our clients battle to find parking, and the dust coming from the construction site makes it hard to breathe. I acknowledge that this construction project will have a positive impact on our businesses but, at the moment, it is incredibly frustrating. I often see the construction guys working hard on weekends and public holidays to try and complete the installation. We are just frustrated that things are not being managed better to alleviate traffic congestion. It’s a nightmare for traffic,” Nxasane said.
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