One-way solution for John Ross truck traffic

THE City of uMhlathuze will from the beginning of April introduce a dedicated truck lane on the John Ross highway in an attempt to ease traffic congestion.

Councillor Christo Botha, in whose ward Alton and the Port of Richards Bay – which bear the brunt of the tipper truck problem – said the issue must be treated at source, namely the slow rate of traffic flow on the highway.

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“To solve this, we are implementing a system whereby the right hand lane in both directions between Empangeni and Richards Bay will become dedicated truck lanes,” said Botha.

“This is logical, as the trucks turn right at the Alton traffic lights and again turn right at the N2 bridge on their return trip.

“This will stop them from having to cut across lanes to position themselves for the turns.

“I do understand that this will inconvenience normal commuters, as it will mean the loss of the overtaking lane on the highway. However, the positive side is that it will stop much of the speeding that currently takes place.”

Botha said he anticipated opposition to the plan but could not see any other option.

“Everyone complains about being stuck behind the trucks and how long it takes them to get to and from work, so we have to do something. Let’s see if this works before complaining.

“We will be putting up the necessary signage and marking the lanes,” said Botha, who added that the fine for unauthorised vehicles using the truck lane would be R1 000 for first-time offenders.

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