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EDITOR: BETTIE GILIOMEE
Kabega bridge poses danger ANNA PAUW
T
HE pedestrain walkway on the eastern side of the low water bridge in Kabega Road (between Diana and Carstens Roads, Kamma Ridge) is extremely dangerous and unstable. The road surface is uneven and the support of the bridge is structurally partially compromised. This is according to Gustav Rautenbach, DA councillor for ward 8. According to him he brought these structural problems to the municipality’s attention more than eight years ago. Even though the municipality has now decided to mend the dam-
The cement slab walkway on the eastern side of the bridge has absolutely no support beneath it. CLLR GUSTAV RAUTENBACH
age, there is no indication on when work would start or how long it would take. “In the meanwhile, the bridge poses a huge danger, especially to pedestrians. The cement slab walkway on the eastern side of the bridge has absolutely no support beneath it,” said Rautenbach. Although the municipality had temporary railings fitted, to deter pedestrians from using the walkway, it still is very easy to climb under the rails to gain access to this potentially dangerous path. But, should pedestrians opt to obey the restriction of the railing and choose to walk in the road, they run a real risk of being hit by vehicles using this extremely busy route. There are bus stops on the northern and southern sides of the bridge and since its situated in a residential area and close to the Walker Drive Shopping centre, the bridge is used by hundreds of pedestrians daily. Rautenbach said Kabega Road provides access to the highway and hence carries heavy traffic consisting of motor vehicles, trucks and buses.
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Mikael Renze (17) is a young local dancer aiming for Hollywood. He was selected to perform at the ARTS Convention in the USA in June. The clothing he is wearing is his own brand called Omnipotence. Read more about him on page 14. PHOTO: ZELDRÉ SWANEPOEL