Zwelethembans are still waiting
Zwelethemba residents will have to wait longer to use the Hex River Bridge, after the Breede Valley Municipality (BVM) said it would be completed by 30 July.
Standard reported on 8 July (“Zwele Bridge fails – who is to blame?”) about the partial collapse of the Hex River Bridge due to heavy rains. At the time it was the only entrance leading into the area.
The BVM built a temporary entrance via the R60 (Robertson Road) for residents to use until repairs to the bridge are completed.
According to municipal spokesperson JP Myburg, the delay of the opening of the bridge is for various reasons beyond the control of the BVM.
Zwelethemba residents have been waiting for well over five weeks for the bridge to reopen. However, the municipality says that the reopening of the Raymond Pollet drive will take place only at a later stage.
“This communication will follow in the coming days,” Myburg said. “No date has been set, but we remain committed to the safety of all.”
Furthermore it says this decision to delay the reopening of the bridge “does not pertain to any structural flaws, but elements that should be investigated which is hindering the process of safe reopening.”
Regarding the entrance at the R60, the BVM says municipal traffic and law-enforcement authorities remain in place to regulate and alleviate traffic congestion.
“The bridge that is located in Raymond Pollet Road and crosses the Hex River was then thoroughly inspected and a report on the matter issued to the Department of Engineering Services,” Myburg said.
Jaco Steyn, Director of Engineering services at the BVM, said: “The focus remains on safety and to adhere to regulations on matters like these. Safety is and always will be the main concern of this municipality.
“Breede Valley Municipality is dedicated to protecting and assessing structures in and around the area on a regular basis. As residents, it remains your responsibility to appreciate and protect our towns and their structures. Please refrain from theft, damage and unnecessary harm to our town and its valuable services and constructs.’