Heavy rains cause severe damage in Giyani | Herald

LIMPOPO – Continuous heavy rains have wreaked havoc across the Greater Giyani Municipality (GGM) leaving a trail of destruction, including severe damage to critical infrastructure such as roads and powerlines.

On Friday morning, residents of Dzumeri village woke up to find a key bridge near the Dzumeri taxi rank on the R529 route on the verge of collapse, rendering it impassable and cutting off access for motorists and pedestrians alike from the other side of the village.

Authorities have since closed the road for public safety, advising motorists to seek alternative routes until further notice. The damage has significantly disrupted daily movement, particularly affecting those who rely on the route for work, school, and business activities.

“We can’t even go to Giyani town for shopping,” explained David Mabunda, from Mphakane, a village on the other side of the bridge, who relies on the damaged road for his daily commute.

“Our only viable alternative for shopping is to travel to Tzaneen, which is a major inconvenience. But that is not the biggest problem, our main concern is getting to work. Without this road, many of us are completely stranded, unable to reach our places of work. If the government does not act swiftly, people will start losing their jobs, businesses will suffer, and the entire community will feel the impact,” he said.

In response, GGM spokesperson Steve Mavunda said the municipality, in collaboration with the South African National Roads Agency (Sanral), has established a temporary alternative route that provides safer and more convenient passage for road users and residents.

“While assessments are underway to determine the extent of the damage and the feasibility of repairs, the municipality urges motorists to be patient and cautious during this period of disruption,” he said, warning both motorists and pedestrians to avoid flooded bridges and rivers during the ongoing heavy rains. Risking crossing such areas could have tragic consequences, as strong currents and unstable ground conditions pose serious threats to life and property,” he added.

The bridge at Dzumeri was not the only bridge that was damaged by heavy rains; several culvert bridges around Giyani, including the one at Maphata village, sustained serious damage that needs immediate attention.

“While emergency services remain on high alert as weather conditions continue to pose challenges across the municipality, residents are advised to report any further damages to the relevant authorities,” he said.