Ongoing rains across the Lowveld region have caused widespread destruction, washing away critical roads and bridges, and leaving streets riddled with potholes.

Sanral confirmed that several roads under its management have been severely affected.

The widespread damage has completely cut off several communities, while others’ access to main roads has been affected, forcing many residents to use longer, more expensive routes to reach their destinations.

Consequently, some public transport operators have been forced to increase their fares to cover rising fuel costs.

According to the spokesperson for the Department of Public Works, Roads and Transport (DPWRT), Bongani Dhlamini, the department is aware that bridges have been washed away and is monitoring areas where bridges have been submerged.

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“We have a number of damaged roads, but cannot provide an exact figure yet as the rain continues. While we have started assessing damage and undertaking temporary repairs where possible, many roads and bridges can only be fully attended to once the rains have subsided,” he said.

Sanral spokesperson Lwando Madonsela said teams are working tirelessly to ensure the safety of road users.

“The sinkhole on the R40 near Klipkopjes Dam, which was already undergoing repairs, has collapsed again and a second sinkhole has formed on the same road near the Green Farms Nut Company. A stop-and-go system is back in place as the damage continues to worsen.”

A slope failure on the section of the R40 past TUT, towards Barberton, and another near Bushbuckridge are also endangering travellers.

“Our engineering teams are carrying out assessments where it is safe to do so. In areas which remain unsafe, assessments will be undertaken once the floodwaters recede. Routine road maintenance teams are currently on standby,” Madonsela added.

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“We appeal to all road users to reduce speed, maintain safe following distances and avoid driving through flooded areas where water depth and road conditions are not visible.”

The Ehlanzeni District Municipality is also assessing internal roads under its jurisdiction, many of which are badly damaged and riddled with potholes.

Several roads in Mbombela, Nkomazi and Bushbuckridge remain closed to the public until the infrastructure can be deemed safe for travel.