Improve the traffic flow while ensuring the safety of the pedestrians: such is the goal of the roadworks that began on June 17th. Samuel de Gersigny, Moka Smart City’s Senior Manager, updates us on the projects and their latest developments.
Two road construction projects are underway in Telfair, Moka. What’s on the agenda?
The first project is dedicated to the construction of a new road in Telfair Square. Works began on June 17th and are set for completion in August 2019. Following this, we will begin construction for a new roundabout, due to be completed in November this year.
How important are these roadworks?
In Mauritius, as in most other countries, the number of vehicles is quickly exceeding our road capacity (number of vehicles per road kilometre.) Traffic in Moka has increased significantly in recent years, and the roundabout at Telfair has reached saturation point. Both projects, once completed, will enable a smoother traffic flow in this prime area and connect the different precincts of the city, offering them greater accessibility. Beyond practicality, the roundabout will also display aesthetic features, with flowers and greenery. Over the long term, we envision Moka Smart City to be a lively meeting place, buzzing with movement and activity, with a road network designed for smooth mobility, seamlessly connecting neighbourhoods to one another.
Will the new roundabout make pedestrian crossings more difficult?
Quite the opposite. We are arranging for a pedestrian crossing that extends from the village of Telfair to the bus stop. This will provide additional safety and a sense of comfort to pedestrians, notably to the numerous students who often commute within this area.
How will this affect the motorists?
With the notable improvement in traffic flow, people will be quick to forget the temporary slowdowns caused by the roadworks. The inhabitants of Moka and road users will notice a larger passage of trucks and excavators, particularly around the roundabout and towards Telfair Views, but these inconveniences will be short-lived. Moka Smart City has already submitted a Method Statement as well as a Deviation Plan to the RDA and Traffic Management & Road Safety Unit (TMRSU.)
Besides these roadworks, are there other upcoming projects?
We are planning to set up a playground for kids, which should be brought to fruition by November 2019. This kids’ playground is the result of careful and thoughtful planning, which entails offering a pleasant, fun and secure setting to our youngest inhabitants—a setting that is of course open to all.
What about Telfair?
Telfair, positioned as the future city centre of Moka, already boasts a number of beautiful road infrastructures, public spaces, a cycling and pedestrian pathway and an amphitheatre. We will further enhance this space with landscaping to really bring out the beauty of our city.
