Local news

Amampondo Drive bridge closed for repairs

Motorists are urged to brace for ongoing congestion as the municipality conducts technical studies to determine the best repair solution for the collapsed Amapondo Road bridge in Centurion.

The collapsed bridge on Amampondo Drive in Amberfield, Centurion, remains closed for repair work.

The Tshwane metro anticipates that the restoration will not only reconnect a vital route for residents and businesses but also strengthen the area’s resilience against future flooding.

Following the severe damage caused by heavy rainfall in December last year, the metro is prioritising swift and effective repairs.

MMC for Roads and Transport Tlangi Mogale said the metro acted promptly following the incident and acknowledged the inconvenience caused to road users.

“The city acknowledges the disruption this incident has caused and extends a sincere apology to residents, businesses, and road users for the inconvenience,” she said.

She explained that immediately after the collapse, officials from the metro’s Department of Roads and Transport and Regional Roads and Stormwater teams conducted an on-site inspection to assess the extent of the damage and determine the most appropriate way forward.

Mogale stated that detailed technical assessments are now underway, forming a critical foundation for the next phase of work.

“These assessments will guide both immediate stabilisation measures and the development of a durable, long-term repair solution that prioritises safety, structural integrity, and reliability.”

The MMC noted that the municipality is now working across relevant departments to identify repair options that balance urgency with sound engineering practice while ensuring full compliance with safety and technical standards.

Based on preliminary assessments, Mogale added that the current expectation is that the bridge can be repaired and restored in one to three months.

Completion is subject to technical studies and the execution of the required repair work.

“Every effort is being made to fast-track the process and minimise disruption to the community. Amampondo Drive remains closed to traffic as a necessary safety precaution. Motorists are advised to make use of alternative routes via Ruimte and Lenchen roads,” she stated.

Mogale warned that road users should anticipate increased congestion and longer travel times on these routes, particularly following the recent flooding in the area.

She added that the municipality remains focused on restoring access as swiftly and safely as possible and will provide further updates later in the week on identified short- to medium-term repair interventions and associated timelines.

“The city appreciates the continued patience and co-operation of residents during this period.

“This intervention will also be used to strengthen long-term infrastructure resilience, enhance stormwater management, and reduce the risk of similar damage during future flooding events,” said Mogale.

She noted that this reinforces the metro’s commitment to safe and reliable mobility for all residents.

In an update shared with residents on Facebook on January 11, Ward 48 councillor Themba Fosi provided further insight into progress following a site meeting between the metro’s roads and transport department and the Regional Roads and Stormwater teams.

Fosi noted that one of the key outcomes of the meeting was that the Central Department of Roads and Transport had officially taken over the repair project.

“Comprehensive studies are required before construction can begin. These studies will be conducted in collaboration with multiple departments to ensure a long-term and sustainable solution,” he confirmed.

Addressing funding concerns, he added that the current budget is restricted, but the metro is exploring the movement of internal funds.

He highlighted that potential partnerships with local developers from nearby building sites are also being investigated to help expedite the repair process.

Fosi also issued a traffic advisory, urging residents to plan alternative routes for school and work travel while Amampondo Drive remains closed.

“I will be co-ordinating with the Tshwane Metro Police Department to station officers at nearby intersections to ease traffic congestion.”

He previously expressed frustration with the pace of progress, saying the delay was unacceptable. He pointed out that it had already been over two weeks, heading into three, since the bridge was shut down, while residents continued to carry the daily burden of the disruption.

“I have been demanding faster action than what has been seen thus far,” said Fosi.

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Tshiamo Boikhutso

Tshiamo is a junior journalist focusing on community news in Pretoria, particularly in the Centurion area. Tshiamo writes for the Centurion Rekord as well as Rekord’s online platforms.
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