Ramaphosa and Lesotho leaders open Senqu Bridge in Mokhotlong
The 825-metre bridge is part of Phase II of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project and cost R2.4 billion.
Ramaphosa and Lesotho leaders open Senqu Bridge in Mokhotlong
The 825-metre bridge is part of Phase II of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project and cost R2.4 billion.
President Cyril Ramaphosa joined King Letsie III and Prime Minister Samuel Matekane in Mokhotlong, Lesotho, on Wednesday to open the Senqu Bridge, a structure built to replace an existing crossing that will be submerged when the Polihali Dam is impounded14.
The bridge, constructed at an estimated cost of R2.4 billion, measures approximately 825 metres in length and stands 90 metres high14. It is the largest of three major bridges being built across the Polihali Reservoir14.
The opening marks a milestone under Phase II of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project, a bilateral initiative governed by a treaty signed between South Africa and Lesotho in 198614. The Presidency described the event as reflecting the strong partnership between the two countries1.
The bridge is expected to ensure continued access to Mokhotlong, Sani Pass and surrounding areas once the dam is operational1. It will also serve as a link for regional connectivity and integration4.
Under Phase II of the water project, water transfer volumes are expected to increase from 780 million to 1.27 billion cubic metres per year14. The project will support the transfer of water to South Africa, generate hydropower for Lesotho and improve access to potable water, irrigation, fisheries and tourism opportunities14.
The expansion is intended to boost Lesotho's hydropower output and advance the country's progress toward energy security while reducing dependence on imports4.
Ahead of the bridge launch, South Africa's Minister of Water and Sanitation Pemmy Majodina and Lesotho's Minister of Natural Resources Mohlomi Moleko were scheduled to unveil a tunnel boring machine on Monday1.