Residents fear that low-level bridge poses a flood danger in Forestdale, Dundee
The flooding has been blamed on the river that flows in the area, which has become 'choked' by long grass and weeds.
A low-level bridge in Watt Road that’s prone to flooding is causing fear among motorists and pedestrians.
The concerns were again highlighted this week when a vehicle got stuck on the bridge that connects the R33 to the R68 via Peacevale and Forestdale.
Sand that has also been washed onto the bridge has subsided, which has also impacted on the flooding.
One Forestdale woman, who did not want to be named, lamented that ‘people in Forestdale are always forgotten – pedestrians use this route and many take taxis to school, work or town and are forced to use what has become a dangerous bridge’.
She claims to have reported the matter on numerous occasions to council and the municipality’s Department of Technical Services, but is still waiting for a reply.
Residents are also concerned about the long grass and thick bushes that block the bridge, and block the river from flowing freely on both sides of the road. This is also a hideout for criminals during the day when residents are not at home. “There are no working streetlights, so our area is an easy target for thieves and worse.
“There are also concerns about no signboards being visible to warn motorists who are not aware of the danger posed by the bridge and the river,” said another Forestdale resident.
The Courier contacted the local transport department offices in Dundee, who confirmed that Watt Road and the bridge fall under the jurisdiction of Endumeni Municipality. However, an official expressed his willingness to meet concerned community members in a bid to offer advice on what could be done.
People are also worried about a sinkhole on the Glencoe/Wasbank road, on which two barrels have been placed in a bid to warn motorists.
However, motorists say the barrels themselves pose a danger, especially while driving at night
A transport department official said the collapse in the road cannot be fixed right now, as they don’t have any contractor or resources at the office to repair it internally.
“The Armco pipe under the road is old and needs replacement. I again urge caution at this spot, as the opposite side of the road is also failing. Should the situation continue, we may have to close the road.”
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