VILLAGERS in Lukholweni, near Mount Ayliff, fear for their kids’ lives as they have to cross a collapsing bridge every day to get to school.
The bridge was built by locals in 2010 after four people had drowned crossing the river that divides the village in two.
Parent Ntombikhona Dindo (32) said: “This is the third councillor we have asked since 2006 to help us with a bridge but nothing happens.
“In meetings we are told that the bridge is not in the integrated development plan and we should wait.
“It is frustrating because we have already lost four lives.”
Another resident, Noncedo Zimasa (51), said they appeal to the municipality and councillor to help them before another tragedy occurs.
Councillor Mzuvumile Jojo told Daily Sun: “The community was addressed and told there are plans to build bridges in the ward. Currently we are focusing on another bridge. People need to be patient. Government takes time because budgets must be approved.”
Simthembile Kulu, the spokesman for Umzimvubu Municipality, said the houses in Lukholweni were built after the municipality had made plans for older villages.
“We are aware of the challenges. A road has already been built to the village. Other plans have been communicated to the residents.”
