Botswana: The police force of Gabrone had temporarily closed Taung river crossing on Monday due to the increased levels of the river. The bridge had flooded, causing authorities to close it due to concern over the safety of the road users.
Rainfall and floods have become a worrisome cause of accidents in the region. However, the closing of the bridge inconvenienced several members of the community.
Several motorists and commuters were stuck near the bridge as they were not allowed to pass due to the floods. The temporary closure remained in affect for some hours till the water level in the river stabilized.
After some hours, the police force opened the bridge and let the commuters through to continue their journey. The officials have shared that some of the motorists had to sleep in their cars while waiting for the bridge to open.
The officials have shared that the motorists were even worried about spending the night should the situation remain unchanged. The officials have shared that on the Ramotswa side of the bridge, parents were eager to see their children.
The children had gotten stuck while returning from school when the floods made it unsafe to use the bridge.
The officials have shared that by early evening, the disaster management team had come to the site of the bridge. The disaster management team on site consisted of police, the local leadership and first responders.
By the time the officials allowed movement across the perilous-looking bridge, the water levels receded.
One of the motorists who was present at the scene when the crossing opened, Taung Kgosi Reuben shared why the situation had taken time to resolve despite the water levels receding. After the motorists had left, the rain started again making the situation worrisome for the people.
Many people of the country were wondering if they will make it back the next day as the bridge is used regularly for travel.