The decision by the Gauteng department of agriculture, conservation and environment to approve the ”unsightly” overhead section of the Gautrain through Centurion is shocking, the Democratic Alliance said on Thursday.
”It was originally supposed to be underground, but Centurion residents now face a hideous concrete and steel skybridge that will scar the landscape for more than four kilometres,” the DA’s Gauteng transport spokesperson James Swart said in a statement.
Swart said the department had claimed that the alignment would save money.
”But according to the South African Rail Commuter Corporation (SARCC), more than R500-million could be saved if the Gautrain followed the existing Metro Rail route.
”Furthermore, there would be greater accessibility, public transport integration and vastly reduced visual pollution on this [current] alternative route.”
Swart added that it was ”very” disturbing that the decision was taken during the festive season when many Centurion residents would be away or out of reach.
”The department must not be allowed to sneak this through. Objectors need to lodge a notice of appeal as soon as possible, after which they have 30 days in which to submit substantive arguments.”
Sizwe Matshikiza, spokesperson for the department, said the approval of the project had followed normal processes. Part of the process was that all the stakeholders involved were allowed to make comments and to air their views on the proposed project.
”The DA should have utilised the available opportunity and it would be unfortunate if the DA would wish to oppose any progressive developmental project at this stage.” – Sapa