The Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) has taken urgent action to close the Mzimhlophe Pedestrian Bridge in Orlando East with immediate effect.

The JRA ordered the emergency closure of the bridge, situated between Mzimhlophe and Phomolong stations, due to unsafe conditions caused by an unstable and rapidly deteriorating structure.

According to the road agency there is evidence of deep cracks and excessive corrosion on the concrete footing on both sides of the bridge.  Aging storm water drainage system of the bridge caused blockages that further exacerbated the bridge’s deterioration; where edges to the concrete stairs have disintegrated.

Nonhlanhla Makhuba, MMC for Transport says theJRA has engaged with affected ward councillors on the bridge closure until rehabilitation works scheduled for the 2018/2019 financial year can commence.

“The Mzimhlophe pedestrian bridge plays a critical role in providing a pathway for community members above the train tracks, which spans across four railway lines.

The JRA has motivated to expedite the rehabilitation of the bridge to restore safe passage for residents due to the high risk of accidental fatalities and injuries to community members.”

The bridge will remain closed until mid-2019.