Bridge completed in time for Mandela Day

Thursday, July 19, 2018

Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport Ismail Vadi has officially opened the reconstructed Tolwane Bridge near Mabopane, north of Tshwane, as part of Mandela Day celebrations.

“Bridge Number 5610, washed away following heavy floods in 2014, has been restored at a cost of R34 million,” said the provincial Department of Roads and Transport.

The project was undertaken over a twelve-month period. It included the reconstruction of a new two-way carriageway. Due to the size of the new bridge, the road was raised by approximately two meters.

Vadi said he was pleased that the new bridge was completed in time for the Mandela Day celebrations.

“There is no better way to mark Mandela Day than opening a new bridge for the communities of Mabopane and surrounding areas,” he said.  

As an interim measure, a temporary bridge was constructed to enable communities to travel in and out of the area.

Vadi said the temporary bridge has been replaced by an expanded bridge across the river and an upgraded single carriageway tarred road.

The reconstruction also entailed upgrades to the storm-water drainage system.

“I am happy that the connectivity that the new bridge provides will facilitate ease of mobility to the communities in and around Tolwane and Mabopane,” Vadi said. – SAnews.gov.za