Note to Broadcasters: Please find attached soundbites in English and Afrikaans by Maritha Coetzee
The Democratic Alliance (DA) is deeply alarmed by the escalating deterioration of critical infrastructure in Hartbeesfontein and the ongoing failure of the City of Matlosana Infrastructure & Technical Services Department to act, despite repeated reports and warnings from the DA.
The situation surrounding the Hartbeesfontein bridge has now reached a critical point. Cracks are visibly forming in the building adjacent to the bridge, while the sidewalk around it continues to sink. The tar edges have eroded to the extent that most of the supporting structures around the bridge have completely disappeared (see photos here, here, and here).
The DA calls on the City of Matlosana Infrastructure & Technical Services Department to urgently intervene to prevent a complete collapse of Hartbeesfontein’s infrastructure. We demand:
- Immediate structural assessments of the bridge and all surrounding buildings.
- Emergency stabilisation and repairs to the road and bridge.
- A clear, transparent timeline for the long-term rehabilitation of Hartbeesfontein’s road network and infrastructure.
Driving across the bridge has become nearly impossible, with heavy vehicles forced to use the compromised structure daily. The Infrastructure & Technical Services Department’s continued denial that the bridge poses a high risk is not only unacceptable but endangers the lives of all road users.
Local businesses are suffering as delivery trucks struggle to cross the decayed bridge, resulting in higher operational costs and delays. Even more worrying is the impact on emergency services; ambulances and fire trucks face dangerous delays when attempting to cross, placing residents’ lives at serious risk.
The crisis extends beyond the bridge. Potholes across Hartbeesfontein’s roads continue to expand, with many now almost impassable. Despite these issues being repeatedly reported, the City of Matlosana has failed to act, adding to the growing frustration of residents and road users.
The DA will continue to apply pressure to ensure action is taken without further delay. Hartbeesfontein residents deserve action—not empty promises.