The Durban Drive-In temporary repatriation site is nearing closure as the EThekwini Municipality, in collaboration with the Department of Home Affairs and supporting non-profit organisations, continues to transport undocumented Malawian nationals to Musina, Limpopo.
To date, approximately 7,000 people have been successfully relocated from the site. This follows a coordinated operation that has seen buses depart daily for the past several weeks.
Yesterday, 58 buses departed from the site, with a further 10 buses leaving this morning. An additional 70 buses are scheduled to depart throughout today as part of intensified efforts to conclude the operation.
The Municipality anticipates that all remaining individuals will be transported by tomorrow. Currently, an estimated 300 individuals remain awaiting entry to the site for processing.
As the operation enters its final phase, the main marquee at the site has been dismantled, while other temporary structures are currently being taken down. Essential service tents will remain in place until the repatriation process is completed expected later today or, at the latest, tomorrow morning.
To improve operational efficiency, the Municipality is engaging with the Department of Home Affairs regarding the procurement of a dedicated truck to transport luggage. Baggage has been identified as a contributing factor to space constraints on the buses, slowing the processing and departure of individuals.
EThekwini Municipality spokesperson Mluleki Mntungwa confirmed that the Municipality remains committed to supporting national government in ensuring that the repatriation process is conducted in a safe, dignified, and orderly manner. Once all remaining individuals have been transported, the Municipality will decommission and close the temporary site permanently.
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