Portfolio Committee examines progress of DID's maintenance work 
By Kamogelo Mmeti
On Tuesday, November 19th, the Portfolio Committee on Infrastructure Development joined by the Department of Infrastructure Development (DID) maintenance team conducted an evaluation and assessment of ongoing refurbishments and repairs at several state-owned properties in the Central Business District (CBD). The goal was to examine the progress of maintenance work, evaluate the current compliance status of the buildings, and review the summary of work done to comply with Department of Labour (DOL) compliance notices.
The focus of the evaluation was on the habitability and structural stability of each building, alongside identifying the scope of remaining works. "There's smoke extraction fans installed along the side of the roof, a fire sprinkler system, and many other improvements," said Chief Project Manager Nathi Ebrahim, while briefing the committee on the progress made at 75 Imbumba House.
The 78 Fox Street building, which has never been permanently occupied since its acquisition, underwent a structural integrity report to determine the reasons for its instability. Similarly, the Old Office of the Premier had been vacated for repairs to address various defects that had arisen during previous occupations.
While it was mentioned that approximately 20% of the work remains to be completed, no specific timeframe was provided for when the projects would be finished or when the buildings would be ready for occupancy. This matter will be revisited at a later stage for further updates on the completion and progress of the repairs.