KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport and Human Settlements, Hon. Sboniso Duma, officially opened two bridges in uMshwathi Municipality that were severely affected and damaged by heavy rainfall and flooding.
The two bridges are located in New Hanover and along the road connecting New Hanover and Dalton. Their reopening marks an important milestone in restoring safe and reliable access for residents, farmers, businesses and other road users who were affected by the damage.
Speaking during the official opening, the Mayor of uMshwathi Municipality, Cllr Mandla Zondi, expressed his appreciation to the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government for the work undertaken to restore the bridges and for completing the projects within the specified timeframe.
Mayor Zondi also acknowledged the valuable support provided by the uMshwathi Farmers’ Associations during the disaster and construction period. The farmers played an important role by making portions of their land available for temporary detour routes, allowing communities to continue accessing key areas while construction work was underway.
MEC Duma and Mayor Zondi both expressed their gratitude to the farmers for their cooperation and community-minded contribution during a challenging period.
Councillors of uMshwathi Municipality also welcomed and appreciated the completion of the bridge projects, highlighting their importance in improving connectivity, supporting local economic activity and ensuring safer movement of people and goods within the municipality.
The official opening of the bridges reflects the continued cooperation between the provincial government, uMshwathi Municipality, local farmers and communities in responding to infrastructure challenges and restoring essential services following natural disasters.