Bridge collapse: probe starts

The government-appointed inquiry into the collapse of the Grayston Drive pedestrian bridge in October will hold its first briefing next week.

Cape Town - The government-appointed inquiry into the collapse of the Grayston Drive pedestrian and cyclist structural bridge in October will hold its first briefing next week, the department of labour said on Thursday.

“According to Lennie Samuel, the presiding inspector to head the Section 32 inquiry into the collapse of the temporary walkway bridge between Sandton and Alexandra on the M1 freeway, the meeting next week is intended to spell out the terms of reference of the commission, set out the framework on the operations of the inquiry, identify witness and stakeholders,” the department said.

The briefing will also deal with media protocols regarding coverage of the inquiry.

It was set up by the department after the temporary bridge in the Grayston Drive pedestrian and cyclist structure collapsed on October 14 just before the afternoon traffic rush, killing two people and injuring 19.

The commission was appointed by the department of labour in terms of the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Act to investigate possible negligence that led to the collapse of the structure. It is expected to take six months to complete its work.

Samuel said all stakeholders had been given until January 2016 to submit documents that have been requested by the commission. He said the first witness was expected to take the stand in February next year.

The briefing will take place at 10am next Tuesday in the Metro Headquarters hall of the Tshwane municipality offices in Pretoria.

AFRICAN NEWS AGENCY