The Infrastructure Development Act, meant to fast-track infrastructure implementation, came into effect on Tuesday following a proclamation signed by President Jacob Zuma.
The act formalises and establishes in law the Presidential Infrastructure Coordinating Commission (PICC), defining the powers of the PICC, chaired by Zuma. It allows the president to nominate members of all three spheres of government to the PICC.
The law also sets clear time-frames for government to implement strategic integrated projects (SIPs).
The PICC will be given the power to expropriate land needed for a specific SIP, but last year, Economic Development Minister Ebrahim Patel assured MPs this would not be abused as it is subject to the Constitution.
The act seeks to eliminate corruption by providing tough penalties, including imprisonment for up to five years.
By: SAPA
