KAROO NEWS - The bridge leading into the town of Nieu-Bethesda suffered extensive damage in December last year and again in February and has been at the centre of controversy recently.
The condition of the bridge led authorities to close it for safety reasons, fearing a possible collapse under the weight of traffic. An alternate route into town was designated.
"However, someone recently took it upon themselves to illegally reopen the bridge to traffic not once but twice," says Unathi Binqose, spokesperson for the Eastern Cape Department of Transport.
"Due to pressing safety concerns, traffic cannot and will not be permitted on the bridge. This unauthorised act further jeopardised the safety of the bridge and prompted the Eastern Cape Department of Transport to take decisive action."
Fortunately, the Department of Transport has secured an adequate budget to start the replacement of the structure.
A detailed design for the new bridge was finalised by the end of October, and the department is gearing up to submit an application to the Department of Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism (DEDEAT) for Section 30a approval to demolish and replace the unstable structure.
The replacement project is expected to progress swiftly, with a targeted completion date set for the end of March next year. Binqose says to ensure a seamless transition, a contractor has already been appointed, and they are prepared to begin the demolition process as soon as environmental authorisation is obtained.
"The safety and well-being of Nieu-Bethesda residents and visitors are paramount, and the Department of Transport is committed to delivering a safe and reliable bridge for the community."
An inquiry was sent to the Department of Transport on who the contractor is and if the tender process for the demolishing and rebuilding of the bridge was open to the public and whether legal charges were made against the person(s) for the illegal opening of the bridge. When comment is received, it will be published online at www.graaffreinettadvertiser.com.
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