Jukskei Park residents, along with Ward 115 councillor Mark van der Merwe, are still living in hope that MMC for Transport Kenny Kunene will honour his promise to make Platina Bridge a priority.

Read more: JRA clears debris at Platina Bridge after flood risk concerns

Kunene made the commitment during an on-site visit on March 6, 2025, following flooding on the bridge. During the visit, he reassured residents that immediate action would be taken to ensure safety. “The bridge has been reported since 2023, but we didn’t have the budget. As Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA), we need to come with interventions, while waiting for the infrastructure grant to fix the bridge.”

At that stage, the repair work was considered to be R1.4m, as confirmed by Khayalethu Gqibitole, the head of department for regional operations at JRA. However, Van der Merwe said the cost for design and replacement of the bridge has now escalated dramatically, to between R60m and R70m. “Current 5m spans are expected to be replaced with larger 8–13m spans, to allow debris to pass underneath.”

Also read: Councillor raises concerns over repeated flood risk at Platina Bridge

@caxtonjoburgnorth WATCH: Ward 115 councillor Mark van der Merwe explains how Platina Bridge flood damage since 2023 has washed away infrastructure and pushed repair estimates from R1.4m to as much as R70m. Video: Ayanda Ntshingila #Ward115 #Fourways ♬ original sound – Caxton Joburg North

He warns the proposed demolition and rebuild on the same footprint could cut off nearby businesses, including a petrol station and a close by shopping centre, for up to a year.

Kunene’s office was contacted for comment, with Natacha Bruintjies, from his office, acknowledging the inquiry. More information will be provided once it becomes available.

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