WATCH: Blue Bridge deemed unsafe – Avoid
JRA inspects damaged Delta Park pedestrian bridge after recent rains.
The Blue Bridge in Craighall Park suffered in the wake of the torrential rains on March 6 that left parts of Johannesburg submerged, raising safety concerns about critical infrastructure.
Ward 90 councillor Martin Williams voiced serious concerns about the state of the bridge, which has been visibly damaged following the storm.
Williams asked the Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) whether the Blue Bridge should be closed for safety reasons. According to Williams, the foundations on the Marlborough Avenue side of the bridge have been eroded, and the concrete walkway has sagged. He noted that the gabions – rock-filled wire baskets designed to prevent erosion – are in worse condition than when he first reported them to JRA in 2020 and 2023.
Also read: Blue Bridge in Craighall damaged after severe storm in Johannesburg
“To many laypeople, the damage appears severe enough to make the bridge unsafe,” Williams said. “I share the frustration of many residents, as no constructive action has been taken or even suggested by JRA.”
The councillor explained that JRA operated using a priority list to rank issues based on their severity. Priority 1 problems are considered emergencies where there is a threat to life, limb, or property. These issues are typically addressed immediately, while lower-priority issues remain on the waiting list until funds are available. However, Williams argued that the state of the Blue Bridge should qualify as a priority 1 issue due to its significance as a busy thoroughfare used by thousands of residents for walking, jogging, cycling, and commuting.
“The Blue Bridge, in its current condition, should qualify as a priority. It serves as a vital route for people travelling to work, shopping, and other activities. Its condition, after the storm, could present serious safety risks.
Also read: JRA partners with JMPD to confront vandalised traffic lights and frequent power outages
“According to the JRA Property List, problems are classified into priorities 1 to 5, maintaining consistency and fair treatment across all areas of the city of Johannesburg. Priority 1 indicates that life, limb, or property is at stake. However, if the budget is not available to implement the necessary repairs, the issue remains on the waiting list until funds are available. The waiting period for the budget is indefinite.”
This system, Williams believes, has contributed to the inaction on the Blue Bridge and is urging the community to explore alternative solutions. “While we will need JRA permission for any work on the bridge, if we can obtain professional advice on what needs to be done and the associated costs, we can work to raise the necessary funds. Relying solely on the City of Johannesburg is not a viable option.”
@caxtonjoburgnorth JRA is currently onsite at the Blue Bridge in Craighall Park, barricading it as it is unsafe for residents to use. #Jra #bluebridge #craighallpark
The councillor’s comments reflect the growing frustration among residents who feel that their concerns are not being adequately addressed by JRA.
Read more: JW excavation in Craighall Park stalls as JRA awaits work order to repair storm water pipe
JRA communications officer Kelebogile Mafa confirmed that a visual inspection was conducted at the pedestrian bridge on the corner of Marlborough and Rothesay avenues. Preliminary findings indicate significant riverbank erosion, which is encroaching towards the bridge footings and abutments. The inspection also revealed deterioration of the deck and damage to structural components.
“The riverbanks adjacent to the bridge have experienced significant erosion, particularly near the abutments. The erosion has exposed sections of the bridge foundation, posing a potential risk to the stability of the structure. If further erosion occurs, the bridge abutments may become undermined, leading to failure,” Mafa stated.
Additionally, the accumulation of debris and evidence of high-energy flood events suggest that water scouring around the bridge footing has contributed to this erosion.
JRA has confirmed that intervention measures were being planned to address the erosion and prevent further structural damage. The agency is also working on long-term remedial measures to restore the bridge for pedestrian use.
“Further developments will be communicated in due course,” Mafa concluded.
Follow us on our Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok pages. Join our WhatsApp group for any story ideas you may have.
