By Amy Musgrave
Due to persistent rain and flooding, South Africa has had to temporarily shut down a key border crossing with Botswana, the Border Management Authority said on Wednesday.
The Grobler’s Bridge crossing is used for trade, including miners in the Copperbelt region, which straddles the Democratic Republic of Congo and Zambia. Cargo is moved to Durban for shipping.
“The increased water level has reached a point where it significantly compromises the safe and efficient functioning of the port. As a precautionary measure, all vehicles within the operational space of the port have been cleared to ensure the safety of all individuals and equipment, said BMA commissioner Nakampe Michael Masiapato.
This follows consultations with the South African authority’s counterparts in Botswana.
“We assure the public that the situation is been closely monitored on an hourly basis and regular updates will be provided. For diversion of movements, Stockpoort and Platjan ports of entry can be used as alternatives by travellers and small vehicles as these are non-commercial ports,” he said.
For cargo movements, travellers and truck operators are advised to use Skilpadshek, Ramatlabam, Beitbridge and Kopfontein as alternative ports of entry.
Large parts of northern and eastern parts of the country have been experiencing heavy rain over the last week.
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