Illegal crossings of La Mercy bridge delay repair
The bridge is still under the control of the South African National Defence Force and it is illegal to cross until such time as it is declared safe to do so.
Motorists taking chances on the nearly completed M4 bridge at La Mercy have set back the finish date for repairs.
Last week, the Courier reported on the repairs with a likely completion date of July 9.
Unfortunately, many motorists who have taken this as an invitation to already cross the bridge have hampered repairs.
“This is detrimental to the delivery date because the edge of the tar was already cut and trimmed to prep for tarring. The edges have now been damaged, meaning a team will have to come and do the entire process again,” said La Mercy Residents and Ratepayers Association member, Paul Ramlal.
Rubble had been laid to prevent this issue from occurring, but someone cleared a path in order to pass, he said.
Aside from the fact that it is shortsighted to cross, there remains impassable road between the bridge and Umdloti, meaning there was no advantage in any case.
There were three washaways and one scouring (a form of erosion) that needed to be repaired and work is still ongoing.
“Please, if you know anyone who is trying to cross, tell them to stop. It is helping no one and forcing this process to be longer than it needs to be,” said Ramlal.
Follow The North Coast Courier on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram & YouTube for breaking news
Telegram Broadcast Service: https://t.me/joinchat/yJULuN8NaCs5OGM0
WhatsApp Broadcast Service: Add The Courier to WhatsApp at 082 792 9405 and WhatsApp your name and surname to be added.
Stay in the loop with The North Coast Courier on Facebook, X, Instagram & YouTube for the latest news.
Mobile users can join our WhatsApp Broadcast Service here, or if you’re on desktop, scan the QR code below.
