The public using the lower bridge over the Apies river will be pleased to know that the Tshwane metro is considering improving the bridge to accommodate traffic in the event there is flooding. Over the past months there has been drastic flooding in Pretoria due to rain and the lower bridge was affected and had to be closed.
The public had been complaining about the difficulties they have when they have to travel over the lower bridge when it is raining. They also had a problem with the bridge sometimes being closed and they have to take different routes to get to the other side of the bridge. The bridge is situated between Capital Park and Hercules and people coming from both areas drive over the bridge to get to their work places and homes.
“We can confirm that the Roads and Transport Department received a request to improve or build a higher bridge over the Apies River. The department has done the necessary planning for an additional bridge at a higher level to accommodate traffic in the event there is flooding,” metro spokesperson, Selby Bokaba said. Bokaba said the necessary processes, however still need to be followed including environmental authorisation and detail design of the bridge.
“We are looking forward to the positive outcome of the decision taken by the municipality,” Isabel Herbst from Pretoria Gardens said. Another resident from Gezina, John Manamela said he is pleased that the metro has finally heard their cries.
“Although the metro does not give a specific date when the improvements will commence, we are pleased that they are going to improve the bridge. Thank you to Rekord for taking part in helping us voice our problem,” Manamela said.
Bokaba indicated that the construction of the new bridge will follow once the necessary budget money have been approved.
