KwaZulu-Natal faces infrastructure crisis as R1.3 billion projects stalled

Residents of KwaZulu-Natal are feeling the impact of critical infrastructure-related projects worth an estimated R1.3 billion being stalled, which affects the delivery of essential services at hospitals, clinics, and libraries throughout the province.

A recent assessment by the KZN Department of Public Works and Infrastructure revealed that approximately 75 major projects were languishing in a quagmire of delays, leaving communities frustrated and deprived of vital services.

The department's spokesperson Steve Bhengu said investigations into stalled projects were presently on the go.

“We’ve uncovered evidence of alleged financial collusion between contractors and department officials, which has severely interfered with the supply chain management (SCM) processes, resulting in delays extending up to ten years,” he stated.

"The appointment of MEC Martin Meyer as the new head of public works has brought a renewed commitment to rectify these inefficiencies.

"Meyer promised a vigorous reassessment of the obstacles hindering the infrastructure delivery and pledged to improve financial controls to expedite project completion.

“Deliberate delays and stalled projects are a major burden on our fiscal resources. We must work with urgency to enhance our efforts,” said Bhengu.

The department set in motion their Rapid Response Team (RRT) with aim to tackle and rectify the entrenched inefficiencies within operations.

Bhengu emphasised that the RRT was dedicated to addressing the persistent material irregularities (MI), fraud, corruption, and procurement delays that have further hindered progress.

The recent announcement that R1 billion in contractor debt being cleared has become a part of the broader strategy to streamline operations and restore confidence in the department’s capabilities.

MEC Meyer highlighted the detrimental impact of stalled infrastructure projects on the province’s budget, revealing how mismanaged taxpayer funds could otherwise be utilised for crucial development.

Bhengu reiterated their zero-tolerance policy towards misconduct and underlined the commitment to investigating collusion between senior officials and contractors.

He said: “We are exploring consequences for those involved (in misconduct), and where necessary, we will work with law enforcement to instigate criminal cases.”

"The department urges the public to remain vigilant and report any malfeasance, reinforcing the principles of transparency and accountability at the heart of its operations.""

DAILY NEWS