The Mpumalanga Department of Public Works, Roads and Transport urges all road users to exercise extra caution while travelling on the province’s roads, as persistent rainfall continues to affect certain parts of Mpumalanga.
The continuous rainfall has negatively impacted road conditions, resulting in slippery surfaces, collapsing of culvert bridges, flooding in low-lying areas and damage to some sections of the road network. These conditions pose a serious threat to road safety if motorists fail to adjust their driving behaviour.
“The persistent rainfall we are experiencing in parts of the province requires all road users to be extra vigilant. We are appealing to motorists to reduce speed, maintain a safe following distance and strictly obey rules of the road. Reckless driving under these conditions puts lives at risk, and we cannot afford to lose more lives on our roads,” said MEC Thomo.
The Department further notes that while some roads are currently under construction, certain contractors are on recess during the festive season period, which may result in temporary disruptions. Motorists are urged to exercise patience, adhere to warning signs and respect temporary traffic control measures in affected areas.
The R533 road between Graskop and Bushbuckridge, D481 road between Ekulindeni and Mooiplaas together with D1604 road in Mbombela remain closed until further notice.
The Department remain on high alert and continue to monitor road conditions across the province in collaboration with relevant stakeholders.
ENDS…
Issued by the Mpumalanga Department of Public Works, Roads and Transport.