Double threat of border closure and crocodiles

Severe flooding has increased the need for disaster management in the area of Limpopo, where most of the low-level bridges crossing the Limpopo River have been closed.

Beit Bridge is currently open, but the river is continuing to rise. If the water pressure increases and the structural stability of the bridge can’t be guaranteed, it could lead to closure of the border . This will obviously have a serious effect on road transport to all northern destinations.

The floodwater is moving to Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal, and drivers have been warned of possible flash flooding in rivers and low-lying areas. The Road Freight Association (RFA) has urged drivers to take special care when crossing low-level bridges.

The RFA also reports that most of the crocodile farms in Limpopo and northern Mpumalanga have been breached due to flooding. This means several thousand crocodiles are now “freely moving” in many rivers. The association would like to warn drivers of this possible danger.

The South African Police Service and rescue services have been mobilised in both provinces.