Government faces scrutiny over bridge repairs and road conditions after rains

By: Envaalde Matheus

LPM leader Bernadus Swartbooi has questioned the government on the timeline for repairing collapsed bridges and whether new high-risk areas have been identified.

Swartbooi raised the issue in Parliament on Tuesday following the collapse of the Okahandja-Windhoek and Rehoboth-Windhoek (Aris) bridges due to heavy rains last week.

Works and Transport Minister Veikko Nekundi said the government is assessing the timeframe needed to repair flood-damaged roads.

Swartbooi expressed concerns over the deteriorating conditions of both national and urban roads.

“The timeframe for repairing the flood-damaged bridges and whether any other bridges have been identified as potential risk zones for motorists, I want to know, especially with more rains expected,” said Swaatbooi.

Nekundi said a contractor has already been appointed for the Okahandja bridge and is expected to be on-site this week, adding that engineers are finalising the designs for the reconstruction of the Aris bridge.

“The contractor for the Okahandja bridge has been appointed and is expected on-site this week. The estimated budget for reconstruction is approximately N$28 million,” he said.

Nekundi added that for the Aris bridge, engineers are currently working on the designs.

“Once finalized, reconstruction is expected to take around seven months, as the road will be upgraded to a dual carriageway,” Nekundi said.

Swartbooi warned that worsening potholes on urban roads must be addressed urgently to prevent vehicle damage and accidents.

“There is a major problem with potholes, from Katima Mulilo to Katjinakatji, Keetmanshoop to Gobabis, everywhere. In Windhoek, it’s even worse, especially near State House and other areas.”

“The situation in Katutura is alarming, whether on gravel or tarred roads. Potholes are growing in size, depth, and breadth,” Swartbooi said.