Overview
- The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment officially handed over reconstructed culverts L27, L34 and L35 and the restored Letaba High-Level Bridge to SANParks after repair work was completed.
- The 10-month culvert project cost R37.5 million and reopened the H4-1 route between Skukuza and Lower Sabie to tourists.
- SANParks says about R85 million was spent in the first phase of repairs and the national government allocated R36 million for recovery as part of a broader programme that estimates total flood damage at roughly R950 million.
- Reconstruction uses stronger engineering—larger culvert openings, concrete bases, stone pitching and embankment protection—guided by GIS, drone surveys and ground inspections to reduce future flood risk.
- Letaba Rest Camp has 29 chalets restored with a target to be fully operational by December and SANParks warns full park recovery will take several years of phased work that will also restore access for anti-poaching and management patrols.