ETHEKWINI NEWSFLASH
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
ETHEKWINI MUNICIPALITY AND PRASA FAST-TRACK RECONSTRUCTION OF FLOOD-DAMAGED ILLOVO RAILWAY BRIDGE
In a concerted effort to restore rail connectivity along the south coast and build climate-resilient infrastructure, senior leadership from eThekwini Municipality and the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) today, 08 April 2026, concluded a high-level engagement to fast-track the reconstruction of the Illovo Railway Bridge.
This milestone marks renewed momentum in recovering a critical transport corridor that has remained inactive since the devastating April 2022 floods.
The Illovo Railway Bridge project represents a cornerstone of infrastructure recovery and economic revitalisation for the region.
Central to the intervention is the demolition of the existing 100-year-old steel truss bridge, which suffered a total failure of its northern embankment during the floods.
PRASA will replace this ageing structure with a modern, climate resilient 340 metre concrete bridge designed to withstand extreme weather events and future climate risks.
Key Features of the New Bridge Design include:
• Extended span: The bridge length increases from 230 metres to 340 metres, fully covering the previous washaway section.
• Improved hydrology: The design replaces four concrete piers with 13 strategically positioned piers to minimise water flow constriction and significantly reduce future flood risk.
• Economic revival: The restoration of rail services will support the local economy, improve mobility, and reduce commuter travel costs.
• Building back better: The transition from a vulnerable steel structure to a resilient concrete bridge aligns with the City’s Build Back Better strategy, reinforcing sustainable and disasterresilient infrastructure development.
VISUALISING PROGRESS: OLD VS NEW
The Old Structure (Steel Truss):
Constructed in the 1920s, the original 143-metre steel truss bridge had reached the end of its functional lifespan. By 2022, assessments confirmed that it could no longer guarantee longterm structural integrity or safety for future generations.
The New Design (Concrete Resilience):
The replacement bridge will utilise precast M10 concrete beams, allowing for a shorter construction period, improved durability and enhanced structural stability within the iLovu Estuary environment.
Speaking on the significance of the partnership, eThekwini Municipality Executive Director in the Office of the City Manager, Sipho Cele, said: “The partnership between the City and PRASA is critical to building a modern, reliable and resilient transport system. We are not merely reacting to disasters; we are deliberately designing our city to withstand them.”
ENDS
Issued by eThekwini Municipality’s Marketing and Communications Directorate
