POLOKWANE – The Polokwane Municipality says a part of Nelson Mandela Drive will be temporarily closed this weekend to allow for critical construction work on the Sand River Bridge.

The municipal spokesperson, Thipa Selala, says the closure will be in effect from Saturday (August 23) at 07:00 to Sunday (August 24) at 18:00.

“The affected section is Nelson Mandela Drive between Vermikuliet Street and the Disteneng intersection. During this period, traffic travelling between Polokwane, Seshego, Moletjie, and the surrounding areas will be diverted,” his statement reads.

Essential road maintenance is currently being carried out on Nelson Mandela Drive, causing extended travel time for residents and motorists who use this route on a daily basis.

Read more: Roadworks to continue on Nelson Mandela Drive until September

The affected section runs between Rissik Street and Vermikuliet Street and the partial closure is in effect until September 16.

Selala says this weekend’s closure includes the installation of new beams using cranes, deck pouring and the demolition of existing bridge components.

He advises motorists to use the following alternative routes:

• Main Diversion:

Vermikuliet Street → Dendron Road → Polokwane Drive → Thembi Hani Drive → back into Nelson Mandela Drive (and vice versa).

• Additional Diversion:

West Street → Matlala Road → Zebediela Street → Nelson Mandela Drive (and vice versa).

The Leeto la Polokwane bus service will also be diverted as a result.

“We urge motorists and residents to exercise patience and cooperation. These upgrades are part of the city’s ongoing infrastructure program to ensure safer and more reliable road networks,” his statement reads.