The damaged sections of the bridge on the R538 near Yaverland are undergoing extensive repairs amid mounting pressure from the community and local leadership.

Mgcobi Trading, a contractor appointed by the Department of Public Works, Roads and Transport (DPWRT), is executing the repairs.

This follows urgent calls from road users, community members and the African Christian Democratic Party’s (ACDP) PR Cllr Suzette Mouton last year, urging the DPWRT to intervene before the bridge collapsed.

The repairs, which started in December, are expected to be completed by the end of February.

DPWRT spokesperson Bongani Dhlamini said that, while more than R2m was allocated to the project, the final cost would only be calculated upon completion. Mgcobi Trading started work on December 22.

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’The scope of the project includes the D636 and D2690 leading to Hillsview. Repairs are not limited to the bridge structure; they include bush clearing to improve visibility and safety,” Dhlamini explained. “We also cleaned stormwater and mitre drains, which will reduce the developing of potholes.”

He added that the contractor is ahead of schedule, with 90% of the work already completed.

The repairs were unanimously welcomed by road users and the ACDP. Cllr Mouton thanked and congratulated the DPWRT on the vegetation clean-up and removal of invasive species around the bridge, which obscured the view and created potential dangers for drivers.

“We also commend the department for responding to the road inspector’s request, and Lowvelder for its reporting on the bridge’s dilapidated status. It is heart-warming to see this positive response,” she said.

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Resident Chris Koekemoer said that while he welcomed the repairs, he had hoped for a total replacement of the aging structure.

“I am happy they repaired the broken bridge rails, which were dangerous to motorists and pedestrians. Now it must be maintained. The department should consider rebuilding the entire structure as it is old, but the current work is appreciated.”

Selby Mkhantswa, a minibus taxi operator, shared a similar sentiment: “I am glad something was done to the bridge and the road. With the cleared terrain, I feel safer traveling there now. But if they do not maintain it, it will deteriorate quickly once again,” he said.