Dr AB Xuma municipality working to make bridges flood-proof

With climate change causing excessive rains which are damaging crucial provincial infrastructure, a rural local municipality is now investing millions in upgrading and modifying several bridges to make them weather resistant. The Dr AB Xuma Local Municipality has announced plans to spend nearly R30m on strengthening bridges against erosion and flooding. Mayor Siyabulela Zangqa said the objective was to ensure the long-term structural integrity of the bridges for the benefit of residents who relied on them to access schools, clinics and other vital services in urban centres.

“This intervention is designed to strengthen the bridges against erosion and flooding. “Improved infrastructure is fundamental to ensuring that residents are able to travel safely, particularly in adverse weather conditions. “The bridge protection works are being implemented through a collaborative partnership between the municipality and the Eastern Cape department of transport.

“In addition, the projects are expected to create employment opportunities for locals.” Among the identified bridges is the Mgwali Lucwecwe bridge in Ward 8, Mgwali Lahlangubo bridge in Ward 12 and the Qengqeleka Mqonci bridge in Ward 3. More than R5.4m has been allocated to these projects. Last week, Zangqa also announced R24m for the construction of Ward 1’s Chaba bridge and its 4.9km access road. The scope of work for the bridge upgrades will include road regravelling, the construction of wing walls, installation of culverts, stone pitching, the construction of approach slabs, erosion protection measures and backfilling with approved quality material to ensure long-term structural stability.