A community in Cholwana, Nkandla, is complaining about the municipality’s reluctance to apply for years to build a bridge over the Ngwegweni River, which is reportedly flooding during heavy rains.

The river, which is said to be dangerous during heavy rains and floods, has reportedly been set up by the community for years, with the intention of using it for children to go to school.

Funda Zulu, a community member, said they have been trying for years to improve the living conditions in the area.

He said they had come to the point where they were losing hope that the issue of bridge construction would be addressed.

“The stones that we used to place with the people to cross the river are now being washed away. Nkandla Municipality is aware of the plight we are facing but we do not understand why you are not helping us with our situation, ”said Zulu.

He said in February the community had decided to protest against the municipality with a view to voicing their grievances.

“The downside is that the municipality does not want to explain to us how we can benefit from this problem,” he said.

Attempts to locate the local councilor were unsuccessful as his phone was ringing unanswered. The message sent by the journalist, too, went unanswered.

Nkandla Municipality spokesman Mgcobeni Khanyile said they did not know anything about the matter.

He said at a meeting the council held with members of the public in March, the issue had not been raised.

“We will plan to look into the situation so that we can take the matter to the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport which can address the issue,” Mgcobeni said.