By OBAKENG MAJE

North West MEC for Public Works and Roads, Gaoage Molapisi conducted an oversight at the construction of the bridge at Montshioa Stad on Tuesday. Molapisi was accompanied by the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) representative, Major Aaron Nguqu and Chief Director responsible for Infrastructure Coordination, Implementation and Maintenance , Sifiso Diko.

He further said the bridge is part of the Welisizwe Bridge programme designed to address the existing backlog of bridge infrastructure. Molapisi added that the programme further aimed at improving responsiveness to emergency situations in rural and disadvantaged communities.

“The programme is a collaborative effort between the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) and National Department of Transport. Welisizwe Bridges will improve communities’ access to heathcare facililties, schools and economic amenities.

“The programme also seeks to create labour intensive working opportunities through the Expanded Public Works and Roads (EPWP). The project was among the 12 earmarked projects in the province as announced by president Cyril Ramaphosa during the 2023 State of the Nation Address (SONA),” he said.

He said the expeditious completion of the Welisizwe Bridges will go a long way to mitigate challenges caused by heavy rains and floods in the communities as experienced in the past.

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