Update: Two dead, one trapped in Joburg bridge collapse
Johannesburg Emergency Management Services say teams are working hard to free one person who remains trapped underneath a bridge that collapsed on the M1 highway.
Two people have been confirmed dead after Grayston Bridge caved in this afternoon.
Scores of emergency services personnel are still on the scene.
The teams have managed to to cut free two other people who were also trapped in the three cars that were crushed by the scaffolding.
Briefing the media on the scene earlier, City of Johannesburg mayor Parks Tau said engineers had been deployed to determine the cause of the collapse, adding that the Labour Department will launch full investigation which the city will support.
Tau says corrective action will be taken if anyone is found to have not carried out their work properly.
Construction giant, Murray & Roberts has confirmed the bridge was being built by them.
We understand the contractor Murray and Roberts is responding proactively to the construction incident on Grayston
#Bridgecollapse ^TK
— City of Joburg (@CityofJoburgZA) October 14, 2015The section of the busy highway where the collapse happened is closed and will remain shut possibly until sometime tomorrow.
The City of Johannesburg has meanwhile mobilised public transport to get stranded motorists home. Even private transport companies have offered to help.
Commuters are urged to avoid M1 tomorrow. Public transport alternatives will be maximised incl park & rides #bridgecollapse^TK
— City of Joburg (@CityofJoburgZA) October 14, 2015Following the #bridgecollapse on the M1 Grayston, @Uber_RSA is offering free rides to & from Gautrain stations until 9pm tonight. Stay safe.
— City of Joburg (@CityofJoburgZA) October 14, 2015Murray & Roberts' shares have taken a knock since the news of the collapse broke.
The construction company, as well as the City of Johannesburg, have sent condolences to the families of those who have died.
(Photo: ER24)