Work has officially begun on the rehabilitation of the damaged Amampondo Drive river crossing in Amberfield, Centurion, marking a significant step forward after weeks of disruption caused by flooding in December last year.

The MMC for Corporate and Shared Services, Kholofelo Morodi, confirmed on January 22 that the crossing rehabilitation project is now underway, following a site visit earlier that day.

She said culvert clearing began on Wednesday morning, while the installation of temporary safe access measures is also in progress.

“Permanent flood-resilient upgrades are next. We’re making sure you can move safely, no matter the weather,” said Morodi.

The update follows earlier commitments by the Tshwane municipality to fast-track repairs after the crossing sustained extensive structural damage during severe flooding on December 20, 2025.

The damage rendered the route impassable, leaving the residents of Amberfield, The Reeds, Heuweloord, and Rooihuiskraal without a nearby alternative access route.

MMC for Roads and Transport Tlangi Mogale said the seriousness of the situation led the city to classify the matter as a critical service delivery emergency.

“The City of Tshwane has completed all required technical assessments and confirmed the commencement of Phase 1 emergency rehabilitation works,” she said.

According to Mogale, Phase 1 focuses on restoring safe, temporary access and includes stabilising the road structure, reinstating road layers and asphalt surfacing, clearing debris from culverts, and installing temporary road and pedestrian safety measures.

She added that while emergency works are underway, the city will simultaneously proceed with the design of a permanent rehabilitation solution under Phase 2.

This next phase will include permanent guardrails, pedestrian walkways and enhanced flood-resilience measures, aimed at reducing the risk of similar damage in future severe weather events.

“The permanent upgrade will be implemented once detailed designs are finalised and the necessary funding processes have been concluded,” explained Mogale.

She also acknowledged the technical and resource assistance provided by a local developer, saying their support has helped enable the urgent rehabilitation of this critical crossing.

She added that further updates will be communicated as construction continues, as the city continues efforts to restore safe access while strengthening the long-term resilience of this vital transport route.

The latest developments build on assurances given earlier this month, when Mogale said the metro was prioritising swift but technically sound repairs.

At the time, she noted that the municipality was 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 anticipated that the damaged crossing could be restored within one to three months, subject to the completion of assessments and execution of 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 Road and Lenchen Road,” she stated.

She 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 metro remains focused on restoring access as swiftly and safely as possible.

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