PHOTOS: New stormwater pipe laid as M4 repair work continues
The pipe is made up of HDPE (high-density polyethylene) which makes it suitable for high pressure pipelines.
A NEW stormwater pipe has been laid from the top of Portland Drive to Lagoon Drive in an effort to repair the washaway which affected the M4 Ruth First Highway.
On Monday last week, repair work was set back indefinitely after a collapse on the bank just above Lagoon Drive. Heavy rains caused a further collapse a day later prompting fears for the stability of properties on Portland Drive and concern the deluge of sand and water would affect two hotels on Lagoon Drive.
Ward councillor, Nicole Bollman, has welcomed the quick turnaround in laying the new stormwater pipe.
“City engineers have installed a 230 metre pipeline from Portland Drive to Lagoon Drive to divert stormwater away from the existing stormwater line, which has since been decommissioned. The pipe is made up of HDPE (high-density polyethylene) which makes it suitable for high pressure pipelines. Work is continuing to stabilise the damaged bank on the western side of the M4 by compacting the earth. The other bit of good news is the residents who had to evacuate their homes on Portland Drive have moved back in thanks to the stablisation effort by City engineers,” Bollman explained.
While Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife is yet to comment, it is understood there is added concern for the Umhlanga Lagoon Nature Reserve.
The wetland at the bottom of Lagoon Drive was badly affected by the deluge of sand and water. Residents have suggested the area affected be desilted to help the reserve’s ecosystem.
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