Meeting tomorrow to discuss Mzimkhulu bridge, plus appeal for TOLL FEES to be exempt
An appeal has been made to Barbara Creecy, Minister of Transport, for toll fees to be exempt on the N2.
It will be attended by key stakeholders, including the MEC for Transport and Human Settlements, Siboniso Duma.
Spokesperson Ndabezinhle Sibiya said challenges facing the public transport system require a collective approach involving all stakeholders and different spheres of government.
This meeting follows the damage to the bridge by sustained rainfall and floods. “This has caused concrete cracking, displacement, and rotation of Pier 3. The damage to Pier 3 is now substantially worse than during our previous joint investigation in November 2024,” said Sibiya.
“We have agreed collectively that as part of prioritising public safety, the bridge should be closed immediately. Despite the recommendation for a complete closure, in tomorrow’s meeting we will reflect on measures to mitigate the social and economic impacts.”
Sibiya confirmed that there had been a written a submission to the Minister of Transport, Barbra Creecy, requesting the South African National Agency to exempt motorists from paying tolls on the N2 as this will be the best alternative route. “We do not want to overburden motorists, businesses, and commuters that are living under the yoke of poverty.”
Traffic management experts are currently monitoring conditions and flood risks while keeping the bridge open for now until the meeting tomorrow with key stakeholders.
