Minister urges public to avoid driving over flooded bridges amid heavy rains
By Siphesihle Dlamini
The Minister for Public Works and Transport, Chief Ndlaluhlaza, has issued a stern warning to the public, urging everyone to avoid driving over bridges and roads that are overflowing due to recent heavy rains.
Highlighting the dangers involved, the minister emphasised that even if drivers can estimate the location of an overflowing bridge, attempting to cross it remains extremely hazardous.
“Crossing overflowing bridges can lead to accidents, including vehicles missing the bridge entirely,” Chief Ndlaluhlaza cautioned. “If nothing is pressing, please stay at home and wait for the rains to pass.”
He reassured the public that meteorological forecasts predict warmer and drier weather as the week progresses, which should alleviate the current flooding conditions.
The minister also emphasised the commitment of his ministry to support the public during this challenging period. “As a ministry, we are dedicated to helping the public in this time,” he said. “We ask for the public’s patience and cooperation.”
Several critical infrastructure points across the country are currently affected by flooding, severely disrupting travel and posing risks to safety.
Among the most impacted are Mawelela Bridge in Hlathikhulu, the Nyetane River crossing in Big Bend, Ngwemphisi River on Egebeni Road, the bridge on D44 between Malindza and Dvokolwako, and Nhloya near Maloma along the Nsoko/Maloma MR14 route. These locations have experienced significant flooding, making travel either extremely dangerous or entirely impossible.
The Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS) has reported numerous incidents of overflowing waterways, which have created major hazards for motorists, pedestrians, and residents.
The persistent heavy rains have caused water levels to rise dangerously, threatening the structural integrity of road surfaces and bridges.
Floodwaters often conceal hidden dangers such as washed-out road sections, debris, and strong currents, all of which increase the likelihood of accidents and injuries.
Motorists attempting to cross flooded bridges face the risk of being swept away by powerful currents, while pedestrians are vulnerable to sudden surges of water that can easily knock them off their feet.
Considering these dangers, REPS has issued a strong advisory urging all emaSwati to exercise extreme caution.
The police service strongly recommended avoiding travelling on routes affected by flooding unless necessary.
Residents are encouraged to stay indoors and refrain from venturing out until weather conditions improve and water levels recede to safer levels.