According to Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA) spokesperson, Bertha Peters-Scheepers, the R23 million project to revamp Emmarentia dam has progressed as planned.
She states that the project is currently at 51 per cent completion. The repairs to the spillways are almost complete. The JRA is also pleased with the progress on the sub surface drains at the toe of the dam wall and the construction of the gabion erosion protection measures.
Peters-Scheepers revealed that the contractors have encountered a gas line on the dam wall that encroaches upon the area where the rehabilitation work will take place. She said the line did not appear on the service drawings. The gas line is old and fragile. As a safety precaution the line will be relocated, however, the JRA anticipates no delay due to the gas line at this stage.
“We thank the community for their continued support of the project, and the patience of commuters using alternative routes due to the closure of Olifants Road. We will continue to keep the community abreast of any new project developments,” said Peters-Scheepers.
The road over the dam wall is due to be closed until December this year. There is a pedestrian walkway across the bridge but motorists who wish to use Olifants Road will need to use alternate routes via Louw Geldenhuys Drive, Tana Road and 5th Avenue.
Related article:
GALLERY: Emmarentia dam revamp on track
