Sandton bridge collapse claims three lives and many injured!
There has been confirmation that a third person has died as a result of the bridge collapse, along the M1 highway in Sandton.
Twenty-two others were also hurt when the heavy metal scaffolding that supported a pedestrian bridge, crashed onto several cars below.
“We will go to the hospital and interact with the doctors but that’s the information we received this morning,”
said Johannesburg Mayor Parks Tau.
Adding that various investigations into the incident have been launched
“We’ve got our own engineers whom we appointed last night to come to the site and do an independent investigation.”
Tau says the city is working closely with Murray and Roberts.
“I had a meeting with the CEO of Murray and Roberts at 5.30am on the site. They also have their own investigation underway and they have indicated that they will be bale to give us a report. Right now their focus is to appoint their own investigators and to be able to assist with the clearance of the highway.”
The highway will remain closed while recovery operations continue and it’s reported that operations to clear the debris are going well. Motorists are asked not to use the emergency lanes, as they are strictly for the use of emergency vehicles.
According to the contractors the heavy metal scaffolding collapsed as a result of strong winds
Ecomobility Festival Continues
The City of Johannesburg says the EcoMobility Festival has not been suspended as a result of the bridge collapse.
“I think at this moment people can start using our park and ride facilities that brings commuters into Sandton. The EcoMobility Festival is all about encouraging people to use alternative modes, now considering that many roads are closed, this is the right time,”
says Ecomobility’s Sipho Nhlapo.
Metro police officers have their hands full to prevent people passing by from stopping at the site to take a glimpse at what happened there.
The area has been cordoned off and workers say they are hoping to clear the scene by Friday.
Traffic Delays
From a bird’s eye view, traffic is being severely disrupted.
The area most affected is the M1 south coming in from Pretoria, because as motorists approach the Buccleuch interchange, they’re diverted either left on the N3 south to make use of Marlboro Drive or through the N1 south to make use of Rivonia Road.
On both alternatives, there is about 45 minute delay
At the same time, the City of Johannesburg says it’s Metrobus service will be available for free for commuters travelling into Sandton today.
Gautrain buses as well Putco have also offered the free service for today.
Source: EWN