WATCH: Alrode footbridge safety concerns put pedestrians and motorists at risk
The Vereeniging Road structure has no railings along much of its length, while pedestrians and heavy vehicles use the route daily.
Concerns have been raised over the safety of a footbridge on Alrode’s Vereeniging Road, which poses a risk to thousands of pedestrians and motorists who use it to travel to work.
The footbridge connects pedestrians travelling from Thokoza and Katlehong via Khumalo Street, who use it to reach Alrode’s industrial businesses, such as heavy manufacturing, logistics and chemical processing.
@albertonrecord Concerns have been raised over the safety of a footbridge on Alrode’s Vereeniging Road, which poses a risk to thousands of pedestrians and motorists who use it to travel to work. Full story on albertonrecord.co.za
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Minibus taxis, large trucks and other heavy vehicles drive under it to their various destinations. The primary concern is that the structure has no railings or guarding along its edges.
Falling hazard
A pedestrian crossing the bridge could slip and fall, and may be hit by a vehicle underneath or fall onto a moving vehicle, injuring the driver.
Part of the bridge has concrete railings, but they are only at the beginning of the bridge when coming onto it from Khumalo Street. Much of the bridge has no safety railings.
City silent
This publication sought comment from the City of Ekurhuleni’s communications head, Phakamile Mbengashe, but received no response.
We asked the city whether it has any concerns about safety risks, what structural design standards govern handrail requirements, and what remedial steps will be taken.
@albertonrecord The Vereeniging Road structure has no railings along much of its length, while pedestrians and heavy vehicles use the route daily. Full story on albertonrecord.co.za
We requested comment on September 3 and will add it to the article once received.
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