Van Stadens Bridge

The N2 concrete arch bridge over the Van Stadens River

The Van Stadens Bridge is a concrete arch bridge over the Van Stadens River in the Eastern Cape of South Africa. It carries road traffic for the N2 national highway.

The Van Stadens Bridge has a reputation as the Bridge of Death. Today, 27th of December 2012 @19h30, the bridge claimed its 87th victim, a 35year old man, since it opened on November 11, 1971. Family asked for his name to be withheld. The number of lives lost for 2012 stands at 5. Since it’s completion it has earned itself the reputation for being one of the world’s most frequented suicide spots.


Bridge details:

Height 140 metres (460 ft)

Longest span 198.10 metres (649.9 ft)

It was the longest concrete arch bridge in South Africa and the sixth longest in the world at that time.

The N2 concrete arch bridge over the Van Stadens River in the background with the old R102 Van Stadens Pass bridge in the foreground.  

The river was named after a pioneer farmer, Marthinus van Staden, and the gorge was a major road obstacle for many years.  A road was built in 1867 but was repeatedly destroyed by floods and the descent was hazardous.  In 1971, the modern bridge was built.

If you are feeling depressed or are considering suicide, contact Lifeline in Port Elizabeth on 041-3738666 or on their national number 0861322322.