Maseru, Mar. 09 — Despite the ongoing heavy rains, construction of the Litenteng Bridge at Ha-Tsunyane in Roma is progressing steadily.
The project Foreman, Mr. Mohlapiso Ts’iu, told the Lesotho News Agency (LENA) in an interview on Monday that the construction team has completed two columns, which are crucial in supporting the weight of the bridge deck and transferring loads to the foundation.
Mr. Ts’iu said the team is currently constructing the wing wall, which is a retaining wall extending from the sides of the bridge abutment or culvert to support the surrounding soil and prevent erosion.
He explained that wing walls enhance the durability and strength of the main structure by distributing loads effectively.
“The wing walls are constructed to support the abutment and guide water flow under the bridge. They also play an important role in retaining soil and preventing soil erosion,” he said.
Mr. Ts’iu added that once the wing walls are completed, the team will proceed with the installation of Armco barriers. However, he noted that persistent rains have caused some delays and the project may take longer than initially expected.
Meanwhile, the Community Councilor, Mr. Sipho Ramalitse, said there is visible progress on the project, adding that work could have advanced further if it were not for the heavy rains.
The Litenteng Bridge collapsed in December 2020 following heavy rains, forcing villagers to construct a temporary structure while awaiting government intervention to rebuild the access bridge.
The temporary bridge that was washed away in March 2025 was the second one, after the first collapsed in December 2023 during heavy rains.
The makeshift structure had been built using locally available materials such as wooden poles from nearby forests, cement and corrugated iron sheets.
Construction of the new bridge is being undertaken by the Manonyane Community Council through the engagement of local contractors and labourers.
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