Safety boost for Amanzimtoti bridge
New barricades have been placed around the bend on the Amanzimtoti River bridge to ensure motorists and pedestrians safety.
THE Amanzimtoti River bridge on Andrew Zondo Road, a notorious accident hotspot, is now safer thanks to a collaborative effort spearheaded by Tidy Towns Amanzimtoti, a local non-profit focused on community improvement.
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Situated at the bottom of a sharp bend, the bridge has been the site of numerous accidents as speeding motorists often fail to navigate the curve. Concrete barricades were installed in April to prevent vehicles from plunging into the river after the bridge’s steel railings were repeatedly damaged. However, these barricades soon suffered collisions themselves.
Michelle Dunnett of Tidy Towns Amanzimtoti called for help to improve visibility, and local business Mr Tank answered the call.
“Mr Tank provided new barricades, painted them bright yellow and enlisted Reagan’s Rigging and Machine Moving to position them securely,” said Dunnett.
Efforts are also underway to install warning signs about the bridge’s accident prone nature, while Dunnett has requested rumble strips from the roads department to slow traffic. She added that a community petition for speed humps might be necessary to push for further safety measures.
“We’re passionate about giving back to our community and proud to support Tidy Towns’ efforts,” said Mariska Roberts of Mr Tank.
A total of 13 barricades were placed with assistance from Gary Dunnett of GAD Fence and Gate. Dunnett extended her gratitude to Lyton and Mariska Roberts of Mr Tank, Gary Dunnett, as well as Reagan’s Rigging and Moving for making the bridge safer for both motorists and pedestrians.
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