Stasie Road potholes fixed, bridge section still a worry
Residents, farmers and heavy vehicles use a Tzaneen road linking the R71 to the industrial area, where danger tape now marks a damaged stretch before a bridge.
TZANEEN – Potholes along Stasie Road in Tzaneen have been repaired following an oversight visit by DA representatives, but concerns remain over a damaged section of road near the bridge, known as Bridge 3692.
DA welcomes department’s response
“After an oversight visit last week on the Station Road with MPL Marie Helm, we are pleased to see that the Limpopo Public Works, Roads and Infrastructure department fixed the potholes and visited the damaged piece of road just before the bridge. Danger tape was placed as well,” the party stated.
However, the party acknowledged that repairing the damaged section near the bridge could take time.
Fixing the piece of road at the bridge will not be an easy or quick task.
“We are hopeful that plans are being made to get the work started to avoid further deterioration.”
Route links R71 to industrial area
Stasie Road is an important transport route connecting the R71 to Tzaneen’s industrial area. It is regularly used by residents, farmers, businesses and heavy commercial vehicles transporting goods.
Road reportedly hollow underneath
During the oversight visit, Helm highlighted the dangers posed by the damaged infrastructure, particularly a section of road that had reportedly become hollow underneath.
According to Helm, Greater Tzaneen Municipality (GTM) Ward 15 Clr Chrizelle Dreyer had previously lodged a complaint about the condition of the road and bridge. After that, the Tzaneen branch of public works reportedly indicated that a drum had been placed near the damaged section to warn approaching motorists.
Although the pothole repairs have brought some relief to motorists, the damaged section near the bridge remains a concern.
Department yet to respond
The Herald contacted the Limpopo Department of Public Works, Roads and Infrastructure for comment on the condition of the bridge, whether a structural assessment had been conducted and what repair plans were in place.
At the time of publication, no response had been received from the department. Its response will be published once received.
