As driving on the Mzimkulu River bridge is being disrupted by water pooling during heavy rain, weeds, potholes and the alleged apathy of the relevant government department to conduct a basic clean-up, a local businessman and Tidy Towns Umtentweni teamed up to spruce up the entrance to Port Shepstone.
The Herald was approached by excited locals who wanted to know who was cleaning the bridge. One Umtentweni resident said he had seen both sides of the bridge being cleaned, weeds uprooted, and stagnant water drained.
The two men on site told the Herald that local human rights activist Selvan Chetty, and Brett Robins of Industrial Supply Centre were responsible.
According to Chetty of Tidy Towns Umtentweni, the businessman was the main sponsor of staff and equipment.
“A few years ago, a similar clean-up was done where the overgrown grass and shrubs on the railway bridge and the R102 were removed. At that stage, there was a water shortage, so the bridge could not be washed, however, the effort made a huge difference to the entrance to Port Shepstone,” said Chetty.
Last week, the team decided to clean up the bridge again and were able to employ brothers Johan Engelbrecht (27) and Alistair Engelbrecht (19), who are visiting the coast with family.
“It’s challenging working on the bridge, but the public’s response is encouraging,” said the brothers.
A volunteer, Dave Geyer, drives a bakkie with a water tank to wash the pillars of the bridge, which has been difficult due to some speeding motorists.
Tidy Towns Umtentweni thanks sponsors, volunteers and motorists for supporting the project. As the team is still out there for a bit longer, motorists are urged to drive cautiously.
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