Motorists using the R61 route between Ngcobo and Cofimvaba will have to wait a bit longer to be able to use the stretch of the road again, after latest revelations that the repair work on a small bridge that collapsed in December last year will only be completed between February 24 to 28.
The revelation was made by Transport Minister Fikile Mbalula, during an oversight visit to monitor the collapsed bridge repair work on February 5.
Mbalula was accompanied by the Eastern Cape Transport MEC, Weziwe Tikana-Gxothiwe.
The provincial Department of Transport had initially communicated that the construction work to repair the collapsed bridge (culvert) was due for completion by February 11, but Mbalula said persistent rains in the province had delayed the project.
“We have made a commitment, as government, working together with our social partners in the province, that work currently being done to repair this collapsed bridge will be completed by February 28. We are cognizant of the fact that this road is a major national economic artery that connects the movement of goods and people between the Eastern and the Western Cape,” Mbalula said.
Mbalula further revealed that plans were at an advanced stage for his department to take the administration of the road over from the provincial department.
“On February 28, when we reopen the road, I will be able to shed more on the status of R61 and whether we take it over as a national road as the provincial department has proposed,” Mbalula added. He said his department would also be investing heavily in construction and upgrading of high lying bridges in rural areas in the Eastern Cape that affect economic activity and make learners unable to attend school due to flooded low lying bridges.
Mbalula also handed over 100 bicycles to learners who walk distances to school but have no access to the government-funded scholar transport.
Motorists have been urged to continue using alternative routes as advised by the provincial Department of Transport.
