Reports have streamed in about the reported structural collapse of the M1 South Bridge at the Booysens off-ramp. However, according to the Johannesburg Roads Agency, the bridge is in fact still structurally sound.
Read more here:
Gauteng: Part of M1 south bridge at the Booysens off-ramp collapses
According to Xolani Fihla, Johannesburg Metro Police spokesperson, the collapse compromised the safety of the bridge. However, the bridge is still open to traffic.
JRA released a statement on 26 December stating that the JMPD made a public announcement on the 25 December that parts of the M1 South Bridge at the Booysens off-ramp has collapsed. The JRA added that the entity would like to correct this statement and confirm to the public that the bridge has not collapsed.
The JRA’s full inspection by its engineers on the morning of 26 December came with the following conclusion:
1. The stormwater drainage system that is meant to take water from the top of the bridge to the bottom has failed.
2. The failure has resulted in water running down the bridge joints and causing erosion to the paving and soil that makes the bridge embankment and abutment.
3. JRA can confirm that the bridge structure is sound and safe for use at the moment.
The JRA through its internal maintenance team is in the process of putting in place holding measures. The continuous monitoring of the situation will be undertaken until full rehabilitation is concluded. The stormwater system requires urgent rehabilitation, but due to contractors’ festive season holidays, the rehabilitation can only be done in January 2020.
Related articles:
Vehicle transporting six cows crashes on M1 near Corlett Drive
#JoburgToday JRA M1 bridge update
One person killed after a collision on the M1
