Poor bridge closure signage questioned
Motorists claim that the signs are too small, hence, the need for larger signage on both sides of the bridge to avoid confusion.
Did a motorist crash into the concrete barriers and signage before the closed Mzimkhulu River Bridge near the Port Shepstone County Club a week ago?
However, traffic authorities have not had any report of an accident at this section.
Also, two concrete barriers were moved near the Oribi Plaza and only placed back on Wednesday last week at about 11:00.
With the barriers shifted, motorists were allegedly seen driving on the closed bridge, including taxis and delivery vehicles.
On the Umtentweni side, a resident noticed that the warning signage was lying on the road, and two concrete barriers were smashed.
“I took photos just outside the country club turn-off. A lot has to be said about the size and quality of the signage to inform motorists of the closure of the bridge. I think some poor soul hit the barrier,” said Billy Lategan.
Lategan added that he is concerned as other motorists could collide with the concrete barriers.
Last Sunday, my daughter saw a bus at the closed section. This again indicates the signage is not sufficient on the R102 from Umtentweni about the closure ahead. The bus driver obviously didn’t see the sign at the Rethman Drive traffic lights.”
Nazir Shaikh, the chairperson of the North Cluster Ratepayers’ Association, said: “The signage is too small. They are not properly displayed and not buried in the ground using creosote poles. Visibility at night is poor; hence, someone drove through the barriers. The single signboard at Rethman Drive traffic lights is insufficient.”
The Department of Transport was contacted for comment, but none was received at the time of going to press.
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