Modderfontein Road Bridge barriers spark growing public concern
“There have been a lot of accidents there, especially at night.”
Residents near Inyoni Creek, Shirley Pein and Lyonell Fliss, have expressed serious concerns about the positioning of concrete barriers along the Modderfontein Road North Bridge. They fear it is negatively affecting traffic flow and safety.
The barriers were recently moved from the westbound lanes on the Modderfontein Road South Bridge, where they had previously caused traffic congestion, onto the north bridge to allow ongoing repairs.
Since the relocation, Fliss explained that only one of the two eastbound lanes remains functional.
ALSO READ: Illiondale roads barricaded to prevent further deterioration
Pein added that the situation becomes particularly dangerous at night, with several visible signs of collisions near the barriers, including vehicle fender debris.
“One lane was blocked unnecessarily. From what I have seen, no work had even started on the bridge,” said Fliss.
“There have been many accidents there, especially at night,” Pein added.
Another major concern raised is the lack of proper signage warning motorists about the construction and lane narrowing, particularly for those travelling eastbound from Sandringham Police Station.
In response, Johannesburg Road Agency’s head of infrastructure, Kwazelela Mcetywa, said the barriers were installed to protect motorists and prevent vehicles from driving off the bridge.
ALSO READ: Ekurhuleni paves the way with R335m road overhaul
He explained that a minor collapse has occurred on the banks of the bridge and requires urgent repair.
“The main purpose of the barriers is to ensure public health and safety,” said Mcetywa.
Regarding repair work, he added, “The contractor has been appointed, and we expect work to commence in June. Relevant signage will be installed by the contractor in line with traffic accommodation and the Road Traffic Sign Manual.”
