SANDF builds bridge for community

SHARPEVILLE. – Operation Vaal River Clean-up which is an initiative of the national government, the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) and the Emfuleni Local Municipality (ELM) recently brought joy to the lives of a local community.
The army members built a pedestrian bridge between in Tshepiso Phase two and three, Sharpeville. SANDF’s Colonel Andries Mahapa and Ward Councillor, Aupa Senyanya unveiled the bridge on last week and appealed to the community to look after it. The bridge was built after the army visited the area soon after their arrival last year and found the difficulties that the community faced when crossing the stream.
“We realised that there was a dire need for the bridge as children complained of being late for school and we approached the local municipality to see how best we could help,” said Mahapa adding that although the army is here for the Vaal River Clean-up project, their task does not end there and that one of their tasks is to safeguard the wellbeing of the community. Senyanya said the bridges came at a time the community was facing a serious crisis when crossing to other sections, especially during rainy seasons and with the spillage of sewerage everywhere these days.
“We appreciate the job done by army to aid the lives of the community,” he said. Nomalanga Maloka and Lehlohonolo Mashaba, grade eleven learners from Mahareng High School near Steelpark said they are happy and appreciate the job well done by the army