uMhlanga is the leading economic hub of Kwazulu Natal, home to the Gateway Theatre of Shopping, trendy restaurants and the uMhlanga Arch and the old M1/N2 interchange had around 40 000 vehicles pass through each day.

Durban launched the newly upgraded Mount Edgecombe highway interchange that connects the M41 eastbound with the N2 southbound on Wednesday, November 31, 2018.

The award-winning architectural interchange boasts a one-kilometre-long bridge – one of the longest structures in South Africa over one of the busiest intersections in KZN with a total of none bridges. But it is more than just an architectural masterpiece.

With the expansion of uMhlanga and La Lucia Ridge and other areas needing to connect to the greater eThekwini, the existing interchange was operating at capacity with vehicles backing up on the M41 and onto the N2 at peak hours.

The new four-level interchange is now a vital artery of the greater eThekwini metropolitan highway system for easing traffic, relieving congestion and is also a significant business enabler providing at least two lanes on each of the major movements.

Included in the upgrade is the implementation of directional ramps, eliminating the need for controlled signalisation, thus ensuring a free flow of traffic in all directions.
Two incrementally launched bridges are also part of the interchange upgrade – one bridge known as B0215, which is 948m long – the longest incrementally launched bridge in South Africa – joins the Mt Edgecombe side of the M41 with the N2 South.

The other bridge is 440m long and joins the uMhlanga side of the M41 with the N2 North.

The safety of pedestrians has not been forgotten as a pedestrian bridge has been constructed over the N2 and will connect to new footways.

In addition, it features state-of-the-art lighting with new LED technology designed to use little electricity to ensure the whole interchange is lit at night for increased safety.

The impressive architectural and engineering marvel is a joint venture between SANRAL and the KZN Department of Transport has taken 5 years to complete at a cost of R 1.1 billion.

ANNISA ESSACK