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The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Thulamela has written to the Municipal Manager, requesting that they take active steps to immediately build a pedestrian bridge across the Mutshundudi River for residents of Vondo and Phiphidi villages in Thohoyandou.

Residents of the two villages are forced to cross a rickety makeshift pedestrian bridge which is on the verge of collapse. See photos here, here, here and video here.

During an oversight inspection, we noticed that this dangerous bridge is the only direct way to travel between the two villages. This means that workers and learners are forced to risk their lives on a daily basis when they cross the pedestrian bridge.

The bridge was built by local residents many decades ago and is made up of wood that is now rotten and badly damaged. We have previously engaged with the local municipality about the issue, but to no avail.

This river becomes flooded during heavy rains and could easily wash this flimsy bridge away, putting the lives of the villagers at risk. Workers and learners also run the risk of missing work and school.

Thulamela Municipality needs to construct a temporary pedestrian bridge, while making plans to build a permanent structure for the people of Vondo and Phiphidi villages. These measures must be taken urgently to avoid any preventable disaster.

The DA is committed to ensuring service delivery and the improvement of infrastructure. We believe that a well-built pedestrian bridge is a priority as it will ensure that workers protect their livelihoods and learners safely receive their education, which will uplift our rural communities.

Issued by DA Constituency head for Thulamela Municipality, Risham Maharaj MPL