Extortion Threats Put Transport Projects at Risk in the City

by
1 min read
transport projects extortion threats

The City’s Urban Mobility Directorate has faced a surge in criminal activities, particularly extortion, which threatens the safety of transport capital projects worth R58.6 million. These projects are significant as they are meant to serve vulnerable communities in need of efficient service delivery.

Brazen and Intensifying Criminal Activities

These criminal activities have become increasingly brazen, putting the lives of communities and hardworking project teams at risk. The syndicates and their henchmen show no regard for the safety of those they are meant to serve.

City Remains Committed to Delivering Services

Despite the extortion threats and attempts to siphon public capital, the City remains steadfast in its commitment to delivering services and meeting its capital expenditure targets. The safety and well-being of its people are of utmost importance.

Stalled Projects

Extortion has stalled several projects, including the construction of new MyCiTi depots in Khayelitsha and Mitchells Plain, the rehabilitation of Delft Main Road, road maintenance and upgrading projects in Bishop Lavis, Delft, and Kalksteenfontein, a traffic calming intervention at the Walter Sisulu/Lindela roundabout in Khayelitsha, and the installation of traffic calming measures and footways in Brooklyn.

Loss and Delayed Production

These stalled projects have resulted in a loss of unspent capital budget totaling R58.6 million. The delay in production has put vulnerable communities at risk and affected the mobility and access of pedestrians, public transport users, and motorists.

Urban Mobility Directorate’s Priorities

The Urban Mobility Directorate’s priority is to ensure the safety of all road users and allocate funds for projects aimed at improving mobility and access for vulnerable communities. They are also dedicated to addressing the dysfunctional passenger rail service and expanding the MyCiTi bus service routes.

Commitment to Overcoming Challenges

The City remains committed to overcoming these challenges and delivering essential services to its people. It is disheartening to witness criminal interference in projects designed to improve and protect the lives of honest residents.

Tags:

You might be interested in

A Russian-Spanish journalist and Cape Town native, channels his lifelong passion for South Africa into captivating stories for his local blog. With a diverse background and 50 years of rich experiences, Serjio's unique voice resonates with readers seeking to explore Cape Town's vibrant culture. His love for the city shines through in every piece, making Serjio the go-to source for the latest in South African adventures.

View all

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.

load-shedding service delivery
Previous Story

Enhancing Service Delivery: The City’s Progress in Load-Shedding Readiness

western cape agoa
Next Story

Western Cape Delegation Promotes Trade and Investment in the US

Latest from Blog

colonel celeste van der klashorst gender-based violence

Championing Justice: The Journey of Colonel Celeste van der Klashorst

Colonel Celeste van der Klashorst is a fearless leader in South Africa’s fight against violence and crime, especially those targeting women and children. With over thirty years of service, she created Child Protection Units and now leads the National SECI Unit, tackling serious issues like serial rape and child pornography. Her team’s recent success in a major operation has led to arrests and rescued children, showing the powerful impact of her work. Colonel van der Klashorst inspires others with her passion for justice, making her a shining example of hope and resilience in the battle for a safer society.

hiv/aids world aids day

World AIDS Day: Celebrating Progress and Confronting Challenges

World AIDS Day, celebrated on December 1, shines a light on the global fight against HIV/AIDS and calls for “Equal Rights, Equal Access” to treatment and prevention. This year marks 20 years since antiretroviral therapy (ART) became available, changing HIV from a deadly disease to a manageable condition for many. While big strides have been made, like improved testing and treatment access, challenges like stigma and treatment adherence still exist. Communities around the world come together to celebrate progress and remind us that the fight for healthcare equality continues. Together, we can ensure that everyone has the chance for a healthy life.

gender-based violence community justice

Champion of Justice: Sergeant Pule Morake’s Battle Against Gender-Based Violence in Wolmaransstad

In the small town of Wolmaransstad, Sergeant Pule Morake is a shining hero against genderbased violence. With fierce determination, he investigates crimes and helps victims find their voices. His biggest success came when he helped put a serial rapist behind bars for life, showing that justice can prevail. Morake inspires the community to stand together, reminding everyone that fighting against violence is a shared responsibility. His work fills the town with hope for a safer future where women and children can live without fear.

streetlight vandalism community engagement

Battling Streetlight Vandalism in Kraaifontein: A Community’s Struggle and Hope

In Kraaifontein, a lively part of Cape Town, the community faces a tough battle against streetlight vandalism. Broken lights not only make the neighborhood dark and unsafe but also waste resources meant for other important services. The City of Cape Town is fighting back by quickly fixing the lights and encouraging locals to report vandalism. With teamwork between residents and city officials, there is hope for a brighter, safer future where the community can shine together once more.

heritage preservation urban redevelopment

The Good Hope Centre: A Legacy in Transformation

The Good Hope Centre in Cape Town is getting a fresh start! Plans are underway to transform this historic site into a lively hub with homes, shops, and spaces for people to enjoy, all while keeping its beautiful dome intact. The city wants everyone to have a say in this exciting change, making sure it benefits the community and boosts the economy. With a rich past as a cultural center, the Good Hope Centre is ready to become a vibrant part of Cape Town’s future, blending its heritage with new opportunities for all.