Extortion Threats Put Transport Projects at Risk in the City

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.