As Johannesburg approaches its next rainy season, concerns about the frequent flooding of Platina Bridge in Jukskei Park are again the topic.

Ward 115 councillor Mark van der Merwe has cautioned residents to expect the potential for more flooding, as the massive reconstruction on the bridge is still a number of months away from being built.

The bridge, which is infamous for flooding during rainfall, was last submerged on March 5, nearly two years after a similar event in March 2023.

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Van der Merwe has been vocal concerning the risks posed by the bridge to drivers and pedestrians alike.

“The bridge has reached the design stage, and it’s all nice on paper, but, with the heavy rains that are going to come, we are not ready. There is nothing the city is doing to ensure that it won’t flood.”

Van der Merwe has, over the past four years, consistently pushed Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) to act. The flooding not only causes traffic congestion, but, on at least two occasions, exposed live power cables to the open air, creating life-threatening hazards to residents.

The city initially offered budget constraints as a reason for its inaction, but, after sustained pressure and campaigning, there now appears to be some movement on the horizon.

“They’re going to tear down that bridge and replace it with a wider one,” confirmed Van der Merwe. “Now, those channels are only 3m wide for the water to flow through. The new one will be two 13m-wide channels. That’s planned for next year, and it’s going to take nine months to a year to accomplish,”

Khayalethu Gqibitole, head of the Johannesburg Roads Agency’s regional operations department, promised that the project is progressing through the planning phase.

“The Platina Bridge is in the detailed design phase, with implementation planned for the next financial year, pending budget, at an estimated R25m.

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“In the meantime, JRA depot conducts routine maintenance of the bridge for ease of movement and safety. Standby teams of JRA are region-based, and ready to act in the case of flooding, if it occurs.”

JRA also advised residents to be careful. In the event of flooding, get to higher ground immediately.

Do not walk, swim, or drive over flooded areas, since rushing water is more powerful than it appears and can sweep you away easily.

“If you are in a car, remain there, except if water is rising dangerously, at which time move to the roof for protection. If you are inside, proceed to the highest floor, but not enclosed attics, where you could become trapped.

Always phone Emergency Management Services (EMS) as soon as you can, be calm, and follow emergency workers.”

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