At least 14 people were seriously injured when a bridge over the Lutanandwa River collapsed between Tshakhuma and Levubu, said Limpopo police on Thursday.

A taxi travelling from Thohoyandou to Makado was crossing the bridge and an Opel Astra sedan was trying to overtake the taxi when the bridge collapsed at 11.20am, said Inspector Ntshengedzeni Makondelele.

The taxi driver lost control. The taxi rolled off the bridge and the sedan was left hanging from the bridge by its front tyres.

A total of 14 people including both drivers were seriously injured and were rush to Makado Memorial hospital for medical attention.

Raods department spokesperson Selby Makgotho said: "The bridge has been washed away and the road remains closed. Due to rain, engineers are unable to make any assessment, but a new bridge will be built after the necessary measures have been taken.

"In the meantime road signs have been put in place to warn motorists and to inform them of alternative routes. We would like to appeal to motorists to remain cautious when driving in that area," said Makgotho.

Sapa