Facing crocodiles and the possibility of drowning while crossing the Uthukela River is now a thing of the past for school learners and community members of KwaDukuza and Maphumulo in the Ilembe District following the completion of the Nyakana Uthukela River Bridge across the Uthukela River.
The Nyakana Uthukela River Bridge, constructed at an investment of R89.5 million with provision for pedestrian crossing, serves learners and communities from the Mankenganeni community on the northern side of the river. It links the Umlalazi and KwaDukuza Local Municipalities., whose community members are now able to safely access important amenities such as schools, clinics, taxi ranks and connect to the nearest towns.
The bridge deck is 230 metres in length, and was constructed 20 metres above the river level, due to the frequency of flash flooding of the Uthukela River.
The construction of the bridge created more than 50 employment opportunities for local community members. Additionally 30 youth were trained during a learnership of six-months on the project resulting in their proficiency in practical scarce skills in the construction industry.
A beneficiary of this project, Dingakele Seme (16), who is a Grade 9 learner at Nyakana Combined School in KwaDukuza said he is now able to arrive at school on time and this has enabled himself and other learners to drastically improve their school performance.
“Before the construction of the bridge, the only way to cross the river was by using a boat. It was a very difficult time for our community as most people relied on this wooden boat which would sometimes arrive late and this resulted in us missing important classes. That is now a thing of the past, thanks to the department. We get to school on time and we don’t miss out on any classes,” said Seme.
Footage of the construction of the Nyakana Vehicle River Bridge can be viewed at https://youtu.be/0UrmPdub4Ck