By 
VILJOENSKROON — Growing safety concerns over the hazardous condition of the R59 bridge near Viljoenskroon have reached a critical point following a recent incident in which a heavy vehicle was driven directly into a deeply flooded section of the road.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) in the Free State Legislature has formally written to the MEC for Community Safety, Roads and Transport, Mr Jabu Mbalula, demanding immediate intervention to address the deteriorating infrastructure and prevent potential fatalities.
A Hazard to Lives and Commerce
The R59 corridor serves as a vital economic lifeline for surrounding communities and regional freight. However, persistent flooding at the bridge has turned the route into a dangerous trap for unsuspecting commuters.
According to DA Spokesperson for Roads and Transport, Dulandi Leech MPL, the latest truck incident underscores a severe lack of basic safety protocols, particularly adequate warning signage to alert approaching traffic to the submerged roadway.
“This incident could easily have resulted in the loss of life,” Leech stated, noting that the hazard extends beyond immediate physical danger.
The ongoing closures and dangerous conditions are disrupting local travel, choking economic activity, and placing an unfair burden on residents who have repeatedly raised alarms over the provincial government’s inaction.
Demands for Accountability and SANRAL Transfer
In its correspondence to MEC Mbalula, the opposition party has outlined three key demands to resolve the crisis:
- Immediate Safety Measures: The swift deployment of clear, highly visible warning signage and barriers to manage traffic safely around the flooded zone.
- Progress on SANRAL Custodianship: A transparent update and explicit timeframe regarding the transfer of the R59’s custodianship to the South African National Roads Agency SOC Ltd (SANRAL), a move previously confirmed by the province.
- Rehabilitation Status: A clear report on the stalled rehabilitation project. The department had formerly indicated plans to terminate the existing contractor’s agreement and appoint a new service provider to complete outstanding structural work.
Pressure on the Department
The situation at the Viljoenskroon bridge highlights broader frustrations regarding road infrastructure maintenance across the province. With local communities forced to navigate unsafe conditions daily, official oversight is tightening.
The DA indicated it will monitor developments closely and maintain pressure on the Department of Community Safety, Roads and Transport until tangible solutions are implemented to secure the route for all motorists.
