Operations at the Groblers Bridge port of entry into Botswana will remain temporarily suspended for at least another three days after heavy rainfall caused significant flood damage to infrastructure.
Border Management Authority Commissioner (BMA) Michael Masiapato said on Wednesday that engineers had conducted a thorough inspection of the damage, and it would take six days to repair the infrastructure.
“We are pleased to announce that the flood waters have now subsided, allowing for an assessment of the port infrastructure,” Masiapato said.
Following the assessment, a comprehensive project plan has been developed to address the necessary repairs and ensure the port’s readiness to resume operations.
Key activities in the project plan include the repair of identified damage to the port infrastructure. Water quality tests will also be conducted to ensure the environment is safe for operations.
Masiapato said the underground areas had to be completely dry to carry the weight of transiting cargo trucks.
“It is anticipated that the repair and restoration process will take approximately six days to complete,” he added.
“Upon completion of these activities, the Groblers Bridge port of entry will be fully operational, resuming its critical role of facilitating cross-border movement and trade between South Africa and Botswana.”
He said the BMA was in continuous engagement with its counterparts in Botswana and further updates would be provided as progress was made. – SAnews.gov.za
