WATCH: No budget to repair damaged Platina Bridge says MMC
Transport MMC Kenny Kunene visited Platina bridge after it flooded again on March 5.
After the heavy rains on March 5 flooded the Platina Bridge, MMC of Transport, Kenny Kunene, visited the site to assess the damage on March 6.
The bridge has been put back on the radar for immediate action as it remains a significant danger to residents and motorists.
During the visit Kunene reassured residents that immediate action would be taken to ensure safety.
Also read: Residents on edge as flooding hits Platina bridge in Jukskei Park, again
“The bridge has been reported since 2023, but we didn’t have the budget. As JRA we need to come with interventions, while waiting for the infrastructure grant to fix the bridge.”
@caxtonjoburgnorthKenny Kunene (Transport MMC) at Platina Bridge following its collapse caused by flooding.♬ original sound – Caxton Joburg North
Kunene has committed to prioritising the Platina Bridge for repairs, underscoring the importance of addressing the ongoing threat to community safety.
Ward 115 councillors Mark van der Merwe, is still considered about the safety of residents as no timeframe for permanent repairs have been given.
Read more: ‘Jukskei Park Bridge repair estimate to 24m’ says JRA
Van der Merwe had a new meeting with JRA to discuss their plans for the bridge repairs, “JRA said nothing can be done about the bridge as they are still waiting for the budget to be approved.”
Isaac Mangena spokesperson of City Power said, “City Power is aware of the unsafe conditions created in the aftermath of the localised flooding, which damaged parts of the Platina Bridge, unearthing and exposing underground cables.
“Our teams are currently on site working on resolving the power supply disruption caused by the adverse weather conditions. We have taken a decision to replace the damaged underground cables with overhead lines to prevent future erosion incidents.
Read more: Residents endure days of sewage nightmare
“Regarding the bridge infrastructure, the Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) is responsible. But in the meantime, we request customers to avoid the area and use alternative routes.”
Van der Merwe said the bridge is still closed for public use. JRA and Joburg City Parks and Zoo teams are on site and the clean-up is underway.
Follow us on our Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok pages. Join our WhatsApp group for any story ideas you may have.
