Dear Editor,
The recent tragedy at the Wismar-McKenzie bridge that claimed the life of popular businessman Collis ‘Tom’ Mentis brought to the fore some serious questions, as was pointed out to me by a very concerned sister in a rather passionate and emotional mood.
* What serious efforts were immediately made in response to the alarm by those working at the bridge to directly contact the Fire Service and the Police Station, both being in relatively close proximity and which should have been equipped to render assistance?
* Given that this bridge is steadily being repaired, what safety mechanisms are in place for the workers who carry out this function to reduce the likelihood of an accident?
* For all the years this bridge has been in existence has there ever been a contingency plan which could swing into gear in the event of a mishap such as recently occurred? Isn’t there a police or regional rescue vessel in operation?
* Why did three, four hours pass before there was assistance to salvage the Tundra, as concerned and public spirited residents in small boats skirted around the scene, some of whom took chances to dive in the river without proper gear in an attempt to free the victim trapped in the vehicle.
* Are the authorities preoccupied with only the collection of tolls? I’m sure that there are a number of other pertinent questions and observations on the mind of many others as a result of this unfortunate incident.
As is often said, nothing happens, nothing said, and I hope that this tragic event will serve as an eye-opener to address many other matters in relation to the bridge which the authorities are blind to, it seems.
None of the above is in any way suggesting that had all those things been in place the life of the brother would have been saved ‒ who can say anyway ‒ but the mere awareness that there is always a preparedness, a show of concern is in itself a kind of consolation. Still, I think there is need for a better monitoring of the traffic across the bridge where discipline and courtesy is certainly lacking. With the foolish reckless driving that goes on daily, order sure beckons for we do not know, we cannot tell what will happen, when.
Let’s hope that the concerns listed above are heeded.
Yours faithfully,
Frank Fyffe
