The oversight report by the Chairperson of Transport presents a few challenges, Hon. Speaker:

1. The purpose of the bridge is only for motor vehicles and pedestrians and no other use?
2. Given flooding disasters that the structure will face from time to time, what safety features are planned for the river banks along the bridge?
3. The pictures capture the current river-bridge scenario but the adopted and approved design is not included in this report and must be done to be supported especially with a section on safety inclusions in the design. The finalised design should be presented in another comprehensive report.
4. The time-frames of the contract versus the budget cycle don’t match, 1 year to 3 years respectively. Will this bridge which started with planning in 2022 and completed in 2025?
5. Finally, the estimated budget of R 36.3 million excluding professional fees for one bridge and 17km of road means that it could cost more at the end of the 2025 if the conflict resolution is water-tight given the delays experienced and cost implications. The question that really needs to be answered is “Are we getting value for money?” notwithstanding that this Cabane River Bridge project is critical for the communities, their livelihoods and safety.
6. Hon. members this could pass for an interim report however a finalised report should be re-presented to this Hon. House once the grey-areas are resolved.
7. Thank you.