Structural concerns for Mzimkulu River bridge
Residents have expressed their concern about the safety of the bridge.
The iconic Mzimkulu River rail/road bridge in Port Shepstone which was built in 1959 appears to have some structural issues.
Tweni resident Frans Coetzer, who grew up on the South Coast, and watched the bridge being built is deeply concerned about it.
“Thankfully no trains are running as this would add even more pressure to the situation. The bridge is not going to heal itself but only deteriorate further,” he said.
Over the last few months, residents have expressed their concern about the safety and structural integrity of the bridge.
Large chunks of concrete is falling from under the bridge and now it appears that pillar two (from Port Shepstone) is sagging towards the sea.
One can also see the sag in the bridge’s hand railing.
Another concern is that if the bridge had to collapse, a main water pipe also runs alongside it.
The Herald has notified the Department of Transport but has received no response as yet.
The spokesperson of Ray Nkonyeni Municipality, Simon April said the local office of the Department of Transport has been advised on the matter, and they are still awaiting their acknowledgement.
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