Rebuilding Kariega, Executive Mayor, Cllr Babalwa Lobishe unveils revitalised Cuyler Bridge, after devastating floods.

Kariega residents erupted with joy as the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Executive Mayor, Cllr Babalwa Lobishe, unveiled the newly refurbished Cuyler Bridge, a 3,8 million infrastructure marvel. Officially opened today, 10 December 2024, after being hit by severely devastating floods, this vital bridge has been restored to its former glory. The newly refurbished bridge promises to bring relief to Kariega residents, as an early Christmas gift, revitalising local economic activity, enhancing transportation, and reconnecting communities isolated by the disaster.

The successful reconstruction of Cuyler Bridge marks the triumphant completion of phase 1 of the project. Building on this momentum, the project has transitioned to phase 2, focusing on enhancing the surrounding water management system involving clearing the riverbank to restore natural flow, cleaning the canal and drainage system to mitigate flood risks.

"We are thrilled to announce the successful completion of the first project, as the closure of the bridge was negatively affecting the economic zone of the area, we wouldn’t want businesses to be affected any further. As part of my 100-days priorities we are driving impactful, agile, quality infrastructural development to boost Kariega’s growth” said the Executive Mayor, Cllr Babalwa Lobishe.

Kariega’s recovery efforts are gaining momentum. After the devasting floods ravaged the town, "as the current Executive Mayor, I am committed to rebuild and boost the infrastructure in Kariega as part of her 100-days priorities under the "All Hands-on Deck” initiative. True to my word and that of the collective leadership of the mayoral Committee, several key projects are now underway including the rebuilding of the Jubilee canal and the gibbon bridge, Kariega, all valued at approximately 6,2 million.”

Efforts to rebuild Kariega are accelerating rapidly, showcasing the Municipality’s commitment in revitalising infrastructure in Kariega. The infrastructure projects currently underway are racing ahead of schedule, with the Jubilee canal project significantly exceeding expectations. Moreover, the Matanzima bridge, initially set to be completed in 24 months is now scheduled for completion in just less than 10 months.

"We are racing to complete all the project before the festive season begins. Following regular site inspections, we noted that the canal is closer to the community posing a safety risk particularly for children playing in the area. To mitigate this, contractors are working diligently, including weekends,” said Acting Director of Project Management, Sisanda Njanjula.

Joy and Excitement overflowed as residents celebrated the bridge’s official opening, and the successful progression of Kariega’s rebuilding journey.

"We are excited, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to the municipality, under the leadership of our Executive Mayor, Cllr Babalwa Lobishe for prioritising Kariega’s development within her 100-days initiative. We are thrilled to see our roads open, we will definitely enjoy our festive season,” said Kariega community member, Belinda Snam.

The Executive Mayor cautioned residents against littering in the river, storm water drains, and canals, emphasising how illegal littering negatively affects river overflow and contributes to subsequent floods during heavy rains.

Ends.