Vital bridge in Chochocho collapses due to heavy rain
Some schoolchildren and community members were forced to swim across an overflowing river to reach their destination.
The persistent rainfall experienced in the province has made conditions unbearable for the residents of Chochocho Village in Acornhoek due to an essential bridge being swept away, and another that is currently overflowing.
The bridge that the Babina Tau Secodary School learners heavily rely on to get to school was washed away on Friday, February 10, trapping them on the southern side of the village.
It had connected the south to the north before being swept away.
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Some pupils and villagers were stuck on one side of the Motlamogale River, and had no choice but to risk their lives by swimming against the strong current to reach their destination.
Meanwhile, the low-lying culvert bridge used by motorists and public transportation is overflowing. This has left the community without access to buses and taxis, and they are unable to travel to the closest town or to the shops in neighbouring villages.
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At the moment, there is no heavy damage to property or reports of drowning.
The Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison has urged road users to be cautious and not to attempt driving or crossing overflowing bridges and rivers.
