Henley residents welcome construction of new bridge

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18-09-2024
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The Witness
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Several residents have lost their lives after being washed away while using the route as a shortcut to access Pietermaritzburg City Centre.

The community of Henley in Pietermaritzburg has finally had its long-standing calls for a bridge answered, with R20,3 million invested in the construction of the Welisizwe Rural Henley Bridge, which is now under way.

Several residents have lost their lives after being washed away while using the route as a shortcut to access Pietermaritzburg City Centre.

This project, launched in response to the devastating 2022 floods that claimed lives in the area, is being carried out by the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), in collaboration with the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure and the Department of Transport.

The goal is to provide safe and accessible crossings for pupils and communities near dangerous rivers. SANDF personnel are applying their engineering expertise, especially in bridge construction, to build the Welisizwe bridge. The project has created employment for 67 people, including 49 men, 32 women and two individuals with disabilities.

Speaking to The Witness, SA Army Engineer Corps project officer Captain Neziwe Zazayokwe detailed the bridge’s design: “The bridge has a 14-bay, triple-single-story structure. The gap we are bridging is 46,33 metres, with a height of 4,5 metres.

We are working alongside the Department of Transport and Public Works, and we, the army engineers, are constructing it.

She added that the Department of Transport has employed residents through the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) to assist with labour tasks, while the Public Works Department has provided apprentices for the project.

Bridge commander Sergeant Mpho Gift Nong said construction had started in August last year, but faced delays due to bad weather and equipment breakdowns.

“It was supposed to be a six-month project, but those challenges extended the timeline,” he said.

Local resident Senzo Ngcobo, who was hired despite having an injured arm, expressed his appreciation for the opportunity.

“They showed compassion by employing me in this condition. I was unemployed, and this job will help me support my family,” he said.

Ward councillor Mlungisi Zondi highlighted the significant impact the project has had on the community.

More than 80 people have been employed, and they can now support their families. Since 1978, people have been swept away while trying to use this route.

“We no longer have to worry during heavy rains,” said Zondi.

MEC for Transport and Human Settlements, Siboniso Duma, who recently visited the site, said: “This community has been isolated and has struggled to access schools and healthcare facilities. They were forced to use this dangerous route, and lives were lost during floods. We have responded decisively.”

Duma added that an integrated approach has been adopted to speed-up the construction process.

Msunduzi Municipality Mayor Mzimkhulu Thebolla thanked all those involved in the project.