Transport and Public Works
(1) Whether the Minister was alerted or consulted about (a) a rail fly-over bridge in Worcester that was left dangerous and unserviceable due to heavy rain in June and July 2021 and (b) the road that was diverted to join a busy road at an traffic circle or roundabout at a rail level crossing with minimum safety, namely only a stop sign and other signage; if not, why not; if so, (i) what are the relevant details and (ii) what role did the Minister or his Department play in advising the relevant authorities on how to proceed at the juncture;
(2) (a) whether there has been any incidents or collisions reported since the diversion was implemented, (b) how long will the repair or construction take for this situation to be reversed; and
(3) (a) what is the total budget for the repair of the bridge and (b) when will the project be completed?
(1) I was made aware through a whatsapp message of an issue with a bridge on Raymond Pollet Drive over the Hexrivier in Zwelethemba which had sustained damage after heavy rains. I have not been made aware of any further details, other than being informed that the Municipal Mayor had indicated that the disaster team was on site to arrange for an alternative route. The road in question is a municipal road and not a provincial road and as such the municipality was fully empowered to follow their appropriate emergency procedures.
However, since the incident occurred, the roads engineers of my department have been asked to review and provide inputs / recommendations on a Bridge Inspection Report sent to them by the Director: Engineering Services of the Breede Valley Municipality.
(2) (a) and (b) This is a municipal road and such questions should be posed to the Municipality.
(3) (a) and (b) This is a municipal road and such questions should be posed to the Municipality.
