Imagine you live in a community near the Olifants River in Limpopo. Heavy rainfall often causes the river to overflow, making it difficult for people to travel to school, work, or other important places. This flooding affects not only tural villages but also urban areas, causing , disruptions to daily life. The Limpopo Department of Roads and Transport wants to solve this problem by building a new bridge over the Olifants River. The bridge will connect two important places in your community, making it safe and easy for people to travel, even during floods. Your task is to design this new bridge, considering the needs of your community and the challenges of flooding. 1. Problem Statement 1.1 Explain the problem the villagers have. \( \qquad \) the river overflow when there is hequy rain

The villagers face significant challenges when heavy rainfall causes the Olifants River to overflow. This flooding disrupts their daily lives by making it nearly impossible to travel to essential destinations like schools and workplaces. As a result, they experience lost educational opportunities, decreased productivity, and heightened anxiety during rainy seasons. The urgency for a stable, reliable passage over the river is clear! To tackle this issue effectively, it's crucial to design a bridge that not only accommodates the flow of the river during flood conditions but also considers the community’s needs. Incorporating features like raised structures, robust materials, and proper drainage will be essential in ensuring that the bridge remains usable year-round. Engaging the community during the design process can also foster a sense of ownership and ensure the bridge meets local expectations!