Thursday, 14 November 2013

Makhaleng Bridge - bad roads lead to declining numbers

Makhaleng Bridge border post is 40 km from Zastron in the south-eastern Freestate. The border post can only be reached by gravel roads from the SA side. Unfortunately these gravel roads are in a terrible condition and most travellers will avoid them at all costs.

We approached the border post from the Lesotho side via the A2 tar road in a good condition. The last town before reaching the border post is the neat and relatively modern Mohales Hoek, about 10 km away.

We asked the Lesotho officials if we can cross the bridge over the Makhaleng river, to the SA side. They had no problem, so we crossed the bridge as many pedestrians do at this border post. 

It is mainly locals from either side that are still using this border post. The bad roads on the SA side had a definite impact on the number of people crossing  the border here. 

Pedestrians crossing the bridge over the Makhaleng  river, into South Afica
Entering the SA side of the border post
We saw this sign alot in Lesotho, but never had to pay any  toll fees