The Mauritian government has taken the decision to fully close a section of Monseigneur Leen road in Port-Louis, effective November 10. This move comes after several complaints from motorists regarding traffic congestion and difficulties encountered in the area. The closure is part of a larger infrastructure project undertaken by the Road Development Authority (RDA) to repair the road and construct a retaining wall following a landslide.
The infrastructure works, which began on November 6, are expected to continue until December 21, as per the contract with Transinvest Ltd. In response to the growing concerns of motorists, Minister of Land Transport Osman Mahomed announced that he has requested the Traffic Management and Road Safety Unit (TMRSU) to examine possible solutions to alleviate the inconvenience caused. The TMRSU will conduct a site visit to explore alternatives to ease traffic congestion.
According to Minister Mahomed, he has also engaged with his colleague, Minister of National Infrastructure Ajay Gunness, to explore possibilities for the contractor to accelerate the works and complete them within the shortest timeframe possible. The decision to fully close the road was made after some motorists failed to adhere to the initially imposed restrictions, which had designated the area for local residents only.
An official from the Ministry of Land Transport, Iqbal Oozageer, explained that the complete closure of Monseigneur Leen road, from the Bel-Village post office to Labourdonnais street, was necessary due to the non-compliance of some motorists. Police officers will be deployed to control access to the area. The project involves repairing the road and constructing a retaining wall following a landslide that affected the section between Félix Poulin and D’Alembert streets.
The road closure has resulted in significant delays, with travel times reaching up to 45 minutes during peak hours, compared to the usual one to two minutes. Motorists are advised to use alternative routes as outlined in the road diversion plan to access Port-Louis. The authorities have assured that they are working to find solutions to minimize disruptions, but motorists will have to adapt to the diversions for the duration of the project.
The TMRSU’s proposed solutions aim to alleviate the hardship faced by motorists and residents. The authorities are exploring possibilities to accelerate the infrastructure works, allowing for a quicker return to normal traffic conditions. The complete closure of the road and police-controlled access are measures to ensure public safety during the project.
The situation will continue to be monitored, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available. For now, motorists are advised to plan their journeys accordingly, taking into account the road closure and using alternative routes to minimize delays. The project’s progress and any adjustments to the traffic management plan will be communicated to the public.
Key points
- The Mauritian government has fully closed a section of Monseigneur Leen road in Port-Louis due to infrastructure works.
- The closure is part of a larger project to repair the road and construct a retaining wall following a landslide.
- Police officers will control access to the area, and motorists are advised to use alternative routes.
