A series of unsafe bridge crossings in Maphumulo’s Ward 11 are posing serious risks to residents, schoolchildren and transport operators, with multiple fatalities reported over the years.

The low-level bridge connecting the P549 and P711 roads, which spans the Hlimbithwa River, is a vital link for the communities of Ngcolosi, Okhahlambeni, Makhabeleni and Maqadini. The river regularly floods, cutting off access and forcing taxis and schoolchildren to wait until water levels subside.

Ward 11 councillor Hlelizwe Mhlongo said at least two deaths have occurred at the site to date.

“Children cannot go to school and taxis cannot operate. We must wait for the water to die down,” he said.

The principal of Velangezwi High School, Busisiwe Khumalo, one of the affected schools located on P711, said learning and teaching are severely affected by the lack of proper infrastructure.

“We have to deal with absenteeism and late coming because sometimes pupils wait for the water to subside before coming to school,” she said.

Mhlongo also highlighted the poor condition of the narrow road leading to the bridge, which causes frequent accidents and is unsuitable for large trucks.

A more urgent concern, however, lies in the Okhahlambeni area, where an access road linking Okhahlambeni and Ngcolosi has no bridge at all. The Umvoti River runs between the two areas, forcing residents to cross on foot. According to traditional leader Sipho Nzuza, at least five people have died attempting the crossing, with others narrowly avoiding drowning.

“We recently rescued a resident after the river almost swept him away,” said Nzuza.

He added that children often miss weeks of school at Isthundu Combined School during the rainy season, and that healthcare workers and pensioners are also affected by the lack of safe access.

An alternative route exists, but it is 15km away and largely inaccessible for many residents.

Councillor Mhlongo also raised concerns about another bridge in Okhahlambeni connecting the Zubane area, which also floods during the rainy season.

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