Rehabilitation of the Sarnia road grade separation bridge B112 over the National Route 2 (N2) is set to start in mid-October, the South African National Roads Agency Limited (Sanral) has announced.

In 2015, two fuel tankers collided on the N2 in the proximity of the Sarnia road grade separation bridge B112 over the N2. The two tankers and their fuel content subsequently burst into flames and in the ensuing fire, extensive damage was done to the road pavement on the N2 and to portions of the Sarnia road grade separation B112. 

The N2 had to be closed to traffic and emergency repairs were done to the road pavement.

This contract is for the repair work and rehabilitation of the bridge. Included in this project are routine bridge repairs not related to the fire damage.

“The rehabilitation on the bridge is expected to commence in mid-October, starting with the temporary access platform over the N2. The works will include the repair of fire-damaged concrete on the bridge.

“Further construction work on the bridge will include minor work such as crack sealing and replacement of damaged sidewalk covers under the seven-month contract,” says Sanral Eastern Region project manager Serisha Sukraj.

The project falls within the eThekwini metropolitan municipality in the province of KwaZulu-Natal. 

The construction supervision will be undertaken by Naidu Consulting and the contract allows for targeted enterprises and labour involvement under the contract participation goals.

Lane closures are envisaged; however, the work will be accommodated with some restrictions and with traffic control measures in place, Sanral says.

“We appeal to road users to note and comply with the advance warning signs and speed restrictions when travelling past the construction work zones.

“To prioritise the safety of both the construction works and road users, the speed limit along the route will be reduced during construction. Motorists are encouraged to plan their trips accordingly, and to make provision for the additional travel time,” emphasises Sukraj.