Following the heavy thunderstorms of last year, the collapsed bridge on Indaba Lane has remained unrepaired, causing inconvenience to residents and businesses.

At the time, it was reported that thousands of litres of sewage washed away the bridge, affecting not only parts of Muldersdrift but also neighbouring areas such as Honeydew and Strubens Valley.

Councillor Shenan Cochrane confirmed that three bulk sewerage lines from the City of Johannesburg that cross the river from Honeydew have been washed away, leading to massive amounts of sewage flowing into the Wilgespruit River. Johannesburg Water and Mogale City assessed the damage and said they would advise on solutions. However, almost a year after the collapse, the situation remains unresolved.

“To date, no work has begun on the bridge. The damaged sewage line upstream in the City of Johannesburg, which posed a major health and safety issue, was repaired in September, ensuring a safer environment for a construction team once work commences,” Cochrane said.

She also confirmed that there were many reports to officials and that the matter was put forward for inclusion in the Infrastructure Development Programme (IDP) in May last year. In September, a petition calling for the urgent repair of the bridge was submitted – following rules of order – to the Speaker during the August sitting of the Council, to emphasise the project’s urgency.

A response was received from the Speaker’s office at the end of October following a site visit, confirming that the Mogale City Roads Department was still in the process of appointing a consultant to advise on the scope of work and the estimated construction budget. Once the report is received, it is assured that a budget will be allocated in the 2026/ 27 financial year for the construction works.

”We are continuing to highlight the urgency of reconstruction to restore community access, as every South African has the right to a healthy, safe environment as per Section 24 of the Constitution,” she said.

Many affected residents, like Keletso Kama, are forced to climb over broken concrete and wade through water at the crossing. He told the Krugersdorp News that such a crossing can harm anyone trying to pass, due to sharp foreign objects that may not be visible, as well as pollution in the water.

Residents have been cautioned about the swollen river with increased current, which poses a risk of being swept downstream. Additionally, the immediate area and riverbed are littered with rusty metal, broken glass, and concrete, all of which could cause serious injuries.

”Many residents who do not own motor vehicles have to brave the waters. Those with transport are using temporary farm tracks through private properties, taking them through to the Ruimsig Stadium area, which adds many kilometres to their travel time to access their local surroundings. We are concerned about delayed access for security and emergency services, as such delays could result in loss of life.”

The News reached out to the Mogale City Local Municipality for comment; however, they did not give a reply at the time of publishing. An update will be provided to readers once feedback is received.