The years of walking through thick bush where criminals lie in wait and over burst sewerage pipes could soon be over for hundreds of residents who have to walk between Mdantsane’s NU15 and the Fort Jackson area.
New hope has been restored since Buffalo City Metro (BCM) recently launched a construction project for a “mini bridge” that will allow hundreds of workers to commute safely between their Mdantsane homes and the Fort Jackson factories.
A new road linking the two areas will see many other residents who use BCM’s Fort Jackson cemetery get there more quickly and safely.
Residents who spoke to the Daily Dispatch on Wednesday said the construction work, which started earlier this year, had already decreased the number of muggings and robberies.
Resident Zolani August said: “The bushes were so thick we never even thought that one day there could be a bridge in that space. As workers we felt like we had no choice but to walk through those dangerous and dirty conditions. There were always burst sewage pipes and now they have fixed that and people are using the road to get to work and the cemetery.”
Resident Nokwandisa Maci said although work had stopped for now, they hoped the metro would finish as the bridge was badly needed in the community.
“As residents we are aware of the bridge construction and we have seen the work being done. We are very happy with the progress so far, especially as NU15 residents, because we are close to the cemetery but for years we had to travel a long way to get to it despite the fact that it is just across from where we live.
“The bridge will also be a great help to residents from NU13, NU17 and other areas. It has not been nice seeing bereaved neighbours struggling and spending money to transport people when we can easily walk there but cannot because of the forest.”
BCM spokesman Sibusiso Cindi did not comment on questions sent to him by the Daily Dispatch. On Wednesday he told the Dispatch the relevant departments did not respond to questions sent to him, and yesterday he said: “I have sent all the relevant departments your inquiry but I am not getting a response.”
Ward councillor Mlandeli Ngabayena could also not be reached for comment on Wednesday or yesterday.
NU15 bridge work brings hope
New hope has been restored since Buffalo City Metro (BCM) recently launched a construction project for a “mini bridge” that will allow hundreds of workers to commute safely between their Mdantsane homes and the Fort Jackson factories.
A new road linking the two areas will see many other residents who use BCM’s Fort Jackson cemetery get there more quickly and safely.
Residents who spoke to the Daily Dispatch on Wednesday said the construction work, which started earlier this year, had already decreased the number of muggings and robberies.
Resident Zolani August said: “The bushes were so thick we never even thought that one day there could be a bridge in that space. As workers we felt like we had no choice but to walk through those dangerous and dirty conditions. There were always burst sewage pipes and now they have fixed that and people are using the road to get to work and the cemetery.”
Resident Nokwandisa Maci said although work had stopped for now, they hoped the metro would finish as the bridge was badly needed in the community.
“As residents we are aware of the bridge construction and we have seen the work being done. We are very happy with the progress so far, especially as NU15 residents, because we are close to the cemetery but for years we had to travel a long way to get to it despite the fact that it is just across from where we live.
“The bridge will also be a great help to residents from NU13, NU17 and other areas. It has not been nice seeing bereaved neighbours struggling and spending money to transport people when we can easily walk there but cannot because of the forest.”
BCM spokesman Sibusiso Cindi did not comment on questions sent to him by the Daily Dispatch. On Wednesday he told the Dispatch the relevant departments did not respond to questions sent to him, and yesterday he said: “I have sent all the relevant departments your inquiry but I am not getting a response.”
Ward councillor Mlandeli Ngabayena could also not be reached for comment on Wednesday or yesterday.
Would you like to comment on this article?
Register (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Trending Now
Latest Videos