Note to Editors: Please find an English soundbite by Cllr Fana Nkosi here
During a recent oversight inspection, the Democratic Alliance (DA) in Ekurhuleni was appalled to find that the pedestrian bridge connecting Duduza Extension and Tswelopele Extension 8 in Thembisa is on the brink of collapse, endangering residents’ lives.
See photos here, here, and here
This bridge, built in 2014 at a cost of almost R11 million, is a clear example of the City of Ekurhuleni’s (CoE) history of poor planning and mismanagement.
The bridge is positioned at a dangerously low elevation, making it vulnerable to flooding, even after minimal rainfall. The DA is concerned that with Gauteng currently experiencing massive rains, the chances of collapse increase daily.
Despite these concerns, the ANC-ActionSA-EFF government continues to ignore the danger residents face.
Adding insult to injury, the bridge has turned into a dumping site due to poor by-law enforcement from the City.
Schoolchildren from Mpumelelo Primary and Tswelopele Secondary heavily depend on this bridge to get to school and they are forced to navigate dangerous conditions.
The DA demands the implementation of crucial safety enhancements to prevent the bridge from further deteriorating.
We have submitted questions to the MMC for Roads and Transport Planning, Cllr Andile Mngwevu, regarding the poor design of the bridge and to hold the ANC-ActionSA-EFF government accountable for their recklessness.
The city’s collapsing infrastructure is evidence of an incompetent administration. This stands in stark contrast to the grand promises made by Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi during his State of the Province address – once more, his ideas are far removed from the people of Gauteng’s lived reality.
Only a DA government can restore quality service delivery by prioritising infrastructure maintenance that will ensure the safety and security of Ekurhuleni residents