Despite funding being allocated for a bridge that has remained closed since December 2023, it remains a mystery when the repair works will begin.

The Sjampanje Street bridge was damaged by a heavy rainstorm, resulting in culvert damage, which compromised the structure.

The Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) initially reported that there was no funding for the bridge in August 2024, and the bridge was declared unsafe for public use, with barriers put in place as warning signs. Motorcyclists and pedestrians continue to access the opposite ends of the bridge by skirting past the safety measures.

Following the floods earlier this year, a Johannesburg Water (JW) sewage pipe near the bridge had burst, spilling raw sewage into a nearby stream.

Also read: Sjampanje bridge crumbles amid heavy rainfall

On Wednesday, October 8, the Roodepoort Northsider saw a team of contractors working on the affected area under the bridge, putting gabions in place, and the pipe has also been repaired. While this marks progress, residents remain frustrated by the slow pace of infrastructure improvements in the area.

Heavy rains also damaged the electricity infrastructure, and while repairs have been approved, the JRA has expressed that the budget still needs to be finalised, leaving residents uncertain about when full restoration will occur.

Also read: No money for Sjampanje bridge reconstruction says JRA

With the road being closed, residents have to drive all the way to Nic Diederichs Road to access Curro Wilgeheuwel and Kwena Square for residents on the other side of the bridge.

The Northsider approached the JRA for comment regarding the bridge repairs and when work can be expected to begin. JW was also approached for comment on why it took so long for the affected area under the bridge to be attended to, as infrastructure works continue.

Despite both entities being given a clear deadline for response, none have yet been received at the time of print.