Residents of Kariega came in numbers on Tuesday to witness the reopening of the Niven’s Bridge in Cuyler Street after it was deemed unsafe and barricaded for several weeks following recent floods.
Niven’s Bridge was marked safe to use and reopened by Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality’s Executive Mayor, Councillor Babalwa Lobishe, who assured residents of its structural integrity. Lobishe was accompanied by the Member of the Mayoral Committee for Roads and Transport, Yolisa Pali-Jongilanga, Infrastructure and Engineering Acting Executive Director Joseph Tsatsire, and Ward 47 Councillor Lungile Langbooi.
The closure of the bridge significantly impacted Kariega’s revenue, particularly for businesses around the bridge, as they experienced fewer customers owing to inaccessibility. Among those affected were Quest Garage and OK Express, situated in front of the bridge, which suffered losses since road users avoided Cuyler Street.
The Mayor addressed the residents stating that the Metro was pleased with the stellar work done by the contractors and their dedication to fixing the bridge, even on weekends. With the bridge now open, it will alleviate the heavy traffic on Nomakhwezana Road in KwaNobuhle, enabling delivery vehicles and other road users to utilise Niven’s Bridge again.
“We are also pleased that the economy of Kariega’s industrial side can flow without interruptions,” added Lobishe. She further explained that fixing the bridge is part of a two-phased plan: first, addressing the tar road on top, and subsequently, dealing with the gabions and necessary corrections beneath the bridge. The repair has cost the municipality approximately R3.8 million.
In an interview with UD Express, Lobishe noted that the municipality is increasingly prioritising the maintenance of Kariega’s infrastructure, as the investment in Niven’s Bridge ensures its durability beyond expectations. “In our 100 Days Plan, we committed to focusing on the Kariega area to make an impactful contribution, as there remains a backlog in infrastructural works. As Kariega is an economic zone, prioritisation is crucial to prevent business suffering.”
She also urged residents to avoid littering in the canals, as this exacerbates river and canal overflow. “Achievement is possible through collaboration,” expressed Lobishe.
Kenneth Botha, owner of Quest Garage and OK Express near Niven’s Bridge, commented on the significant impact the reopening will have on Kariega’s economy. “Since the bridge closure seven weeks ago, I’ve interacted with nearby businesses, and it has heavily impacted us all.”
Botha mentioned efforts to clear areas beside the bridge to allow motorists from Kariega, working in the industrial area, to park and walk to work, a demonstration of community teamwork during a challenging time. Unfortunately, they lost 50% of sales at OK Express and 75-80% in fuel sales at Quest. “I’m still selling fuel bought in October, as there’s been little traffic near us.”
Botha added that the bridge closure not only caused revenue loss but highlighted the risk of residents adapting to the alternative Jeffreys Bay route via Cape Road, which could result in a long-term sales decline, as his business relies heavily on traffic using Niven’s Bridge. “During this busy season, we hope to recover from the financial hit,” Botha stated.
Ward 51 Councillor Roelf Basson worked tirelessly to expedite reopening of the bridge. “My primary focus was getting the bridge operational. Initially frustrated by the delay, I was informed structural examination was necessary before reopening the unaffected side,” said Basson. He explained that it would initially take two weeks for a structural engineer to certify the bridge, a lengthy wait with the festive season approaching.
Basson appreciated the contractors for their transparency throughout the project. “Despite the prolonged duration to some, timely execution was crucial to mitigate business losses. The primary reason for the bridge closure was compromised structural integrity. Though externally appearing intact, there were critical cracks, necessitating comprehensive inspection and repair.”
He added, “Although the bridge isn’t within my Ward, I felt obligated to update Ward residents who rely on it and assist my fellow Ward Councillor managing another bridge in KwaNobuhle.”
Mayor Lobishe announced further infrastructural improvements for Kariega. She revealed that the collapsed KwaNobuhle Bridge, damaged by a June flash flood, would be repaired in 10 months instead of the originally projected 24 months. The repair countdown begins in March 2025. She also urged local organisations to collaborate with the municipality to expedite repairing the KwaNobuhle Bridge.
