Re-opening of Punda Maria bridge opens economic opportunities
The opening of the bridge means access to Thohoyandou stadium, the Thulamela library, Kruger National Park and the Makhado N1.
LIMPOPO – Thulamela Mayor, Sarah Rambuda said the official opening of the R524 bridge along the Punda Maria road is part of the earnest progress that the municipality and Sanral were making to promote economic activities in Thohoyandou, specifically in Thavhani Mall.
“For us as the Thulamela Local Municipality, this bridge means better provision of health services, better connection to various schools, shops and other facilities. The bridge will promote mobility and passenger transport,” she said.
The opening of the bridge also means access to Thohoyandou stadium, the Thulamela library, Kruger National Park and the Makhado N1.
“We are finally able to empower our communities and motorists and it is one of the standards by which our municipality will be judged. I believe this project was labour intensive, and jobs were created for people in this ward and beyond,” added Rambuda.
Officiating the opening of the bridge, Rambuda was accompanied by Sanral officials, councillors and members of the communities. The bridge is situated between Acacia Park near Thavhani Mall and Thohoyandou Block G.
Sanral project manager responsible for the routes in Vhembe and Mopani, Thabo Mahlakwana said the road was closed early 2021 after it collapsed, due to heavy rains.
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“The repair of the road was done by a competent team which consisted of experienced engineers and local sub-contractors. The project had a seven-month construction period of which the contractor managed to finish the work on time and within budget.
A business owner, Thuso Mmbadi, who owns the Engen garage near the junction of Maniini and Thohoyandou Block G, said business owners in the area were elated at the opening of the bridge, as it opened up the route for customers.
