After the devastating flash floods of June 1, 2024, the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality’s Roads and Transport Directorate has been hard at work restoring the vital infrastructure in KwaNobuhle. Owing to the flash floods, the Matanzima Bridge collapsed, causing congestion on alternative routes in and out of KwaNobuhle.
Two severely damaged bridges near the intersections of Matanzima and Ponana Tini Road, and Nomakhwezana Road, are currently undergoing major reconstruction. Since work began on 12 May 2025, progress has steadily reached 20%, according to the municipality, with completion anticipated by the end of October 2025. So far, the riverbed has been cleared of debris and vegetation, damaged concrete slabs were removed, cracks on the abutments were repaired, spalled concrete on the parapets was restored, and gabion baskets were placed underneath the bridges.
The Roads and Transport Directorate also provided temporary relief to Nomakhwezana Road by building a temporary road behind Laetitia Bam Day Hospital. Additionally, they diverted the river for construction, demolished the damaged floor slabs, and installed gabion protection, which is still underway. The municipality added that about 17% of the total R83 million budget for completing the bridge works has already been invested.
Approximately 39 SMME contractors will benefit from an estimated amount of over R26 million, stating that this initiative is more than just construction; it’s a commitment to safety, mobility, and resilience for the community.
