the roundabouts on the M1, M2 and M3 motorways, he will, for the benefit of the House, obtain from the Road…
(No. B/611) Mr L. Caserne (Third Member for Port Louis North & Montagne Longue) asked the Minister of National Infrastructure whether, in regard to the roundabouts on the M1, M2 and M3 motorways, he will, for the benefit of the House, obtain from the Road Development Authority, the list thereof earmarked for conversion into Grade-Separated Junctions to alleviate traffic congestion thereat, indicating in each case – (a) the scope of works; (b) the estimated cost, and (c) where matters stand as to the implementation of the project.
Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, it is a known fact that previously, roundabout were being provided along motorways and main roads to allow conflicting movements across junctions. These roundabouts have served their purposes over the years. However, over time due to increasing volume of traffic, several of these roundabouts are now operating beyond capacity, leading to extensive congestion, long queues and increasing travel times. Accordingly, the Road Development Authority, in line with the present policy to replace roundabouts and junctions with flyovers or Grade-Separated Junctions and interchangers, has identified a list of roundabouts which have reached a critical
63 stage and needful is being done to replace them in a phased manner. It should be highlighted that many developed countries do not have roundabouts along their highways, motorways. I am informed by the RDA that a traffic analysis survey including an assessment of the volume of traffic and turning movement of vehicles at roundabouts is normally carried out on the basis of which a decision is taken as to whether the roundabout warrants any upgrading. Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, I am informed by the RDA that as at date, six roundabouts have already been replaced by Grade-Separated Junctions or flyovers, namely at – • Quay D; • Wooton; • St Pierre Bypass; • Terre Rouge on motorway M2; • Motorway M1 at La Vigie, and • Interchange construction and improvements along M3-A14 corridor at Ebène. Additionally, the RDA has identified four more projects, which are currently at preliminary stage, namely – • Flyover at Camp Fouquereaux; • Flyover on Motorway M2 at Baie du Tombeau roundabout, Roche Bois; • Flyover on Motorway M1 at Swami Vivekananda Avenue, Curepipe, and • Flyover on Motorway M1 at Nouvelle France. These projects are expected to be implemented in the coming financial years. Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, with regard to part (a) of the question, I am informed that the scope of works for the grade-separated junctions and flyovers generally involves – • technical surveys and investigations; • rerouting and protection of existing services; • relocation of monuments; • design and construction of the flyover with provision of add-grade slip lanes;
64 • construction and upgrading of drainage and retaining structures. With your permission, I am tabling the details regarding parts (a), (b) and (c) of the question.
Hon. Second Member for Quartier Militaire and Moka! DISTRICT COUNCILS – GYMNASIUM INSTRUCTORS – RECRUITMENT & ALLOWANCE