Toll waiver extended
The Department of Transport aims to reopen the bridge to traffic by December 2.
Motorists have been granted a further 100% frequent user rebate until repairs are complete on the Mzimkhulu River bridge in Port Shepstone.
The bridge is targeted for reopening to traffic by December 2. The rebate is in alignment with the suspension of the obligation to pay toll fees until 23:59 on the same day.
The KZN MEC for Transport and Human Settlements, Siboniso Duma, said all categories of staff in the department and in the region have been mobilised to ensure that the situation is turned around.
“Recent geotechnical reports indicate that only pillar two is affected, and repair efforts are focusing primarily on this area while also addressing P464, which is currently being used as a detour. Before the stoppages, we had planned to bring the reopening date forward to November 13. As indicated on various platforms weeks ago I mandated the project team to be agile and show a high level of speed and a sense of urgency,” he said.
The team is building on the following successes while revising the targeted dates:
* The river mouth has been successfully diverted to clear pillar 2.
* Access and platform construction for pillar 2 was initially targeted for completion by September 19. This date is being revised.
* Drilling is set to be completed by October 2. This date is being revised.
* Foundation work will be finalised by November 7.
* Casting will occur on November 9.
* Jacking of the bridge on pillar 2 is planned for November 13, at which point the department aims to reopen to traffic while continuing necessary repairs.
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