Question NW2523 to the Minister of Transport
17 October 2022 - NW2523
Singh, Mr N to ask the Minister of Transport
(1) Whether, given that the Umkomaas R102 bridge has collapsed and is posing an incredible danger to not only motorists who are using the specified bridge, but also to pedestrians who could fall into the embankment that is riddled with exposed electrical lines, his department has been informed of the current damage of the bridge; if not, why not; if so, what assessment(s) have been undertaken; (2) whether there are any plans for the reconstruction of the bridge; if not, why not; if so, (a) what are the current proposed timelines for such reconstruction and (b) at what stage is the tender process? NW3024E
Reply:
1. The road damage at Umkomaas on R102 is a slip failure, not a bridge collapse. The slip failure was a result of the recent April 2022 floods. The site has been assessed, and only one lane was deemed safe to use. The affected portion has therefore been barricaded and the road is currently operating on a single lane in order to prevent total road closure.
2. Remedial works are inclusive of backfilling the failed slope and protecting the damaged embankment. Contractors have been invited to quote for the required repairs and the quotations closed on the 9th of September 2022, and the works will commence immediately after the appointment of a contractor, which is anticipated to be before December 2022.