By Luyanda Mzobe
The long-awaited upgrade of the B649 bridge in Atteridgeville, Pretoria, has officially begun following a sod-turning ceremony led by Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport Kedibone Diale-Tlabela, alongside MMC Tlangi Mogale. The project marks another step in the provincial government’s efforts to improve road infrastructure, strengthen bridge safety and ensure the long-term reliability of transport networks across Gauteng.
photo by: Luyanda Mzobe
Official commencement of the bridge
Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport, Kedibone Diale-Tlabela, highlighted the financial impact of disruptions on infrastructure projects, warning that delays come at a significant cost to taxpayers.“In projects like this they must know that the machines on site are a cost to us as people of Gauteng, and they don’t come cheap. It goes into millions, and those are the millions maybe we can save when we don’t disrupt,” she said.
photo by: Luyanda Mzobe
Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport Kedibone Diale-Tlabela
Her remarks underscored the importance of allowing construction work to proceed without unnecessary interruptions, as delays can affect project timelines and increase costs for the province.The B649 bridge upgrade forms part of the department’s broader infrastructure development programme, which includes the implementation of its Bridge Management System. The system focuses on the management, monitoring and maintenance of bridges to ensure they remain safe and functional.
The City of Tshwane currently has seven existing bridges undergoing rehabilitation, with repair and upgrade work aimed at improving their condition and extending their lifespan. Bridge infrastructure plays a critical role in supporting daily travel, connecting communities and facilitating the movement of goods and services. Maintaining these structures is therefore essential to protecting road users and ensuring that the province’s transport network remains dependable. The B649 bridge project is expected to be completed in August 2028. Once finished, it will form part of the ongoing effort to maintain and improve Gauteng’s road infrastructure while addressing the challenges associated with ageing bridges.
photo by: Luyanda Mzobe
The B649 bridge in Atteridgeville, Pretoria, where construction and upgrade work is underway to improve bridge infrastructure and road safety.
As construction gets underway, the department’s message is clear, protecting public infrastructure and avoiding unnecessary disruptions are important to ensuring that projects are completed efficiently and that public funds are used responsibly
