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Tawanda Mangoma in CHIREDZI
The Infrastructure Development Bank of Zimbabwe (IDBZ) has availed $14 million towards the construction of an all-weather major bridge across Runde River in the low-lying Chilonga area in Chiredzi, which was destroyed by floods 17 years ago.
The funding would also be used for the upgrading of a link road between Chiredzi and Sango Border Post, through Boli Business Centre.
At least five people drown every year while trying to cross the flooded Runde River.
Chiredzi South legislator Brigadier- General (Rtd) Kalisto Gwanetsa yesterday said since the washing away of Chipinda Bridge during Cyclone Eline in 2000, villagers from his constituency had been struggling to access services in Chiredzi.
“We had suffered for almost 17 years due to the unavailability of a bridge at Chipinda,” he said. “Every year it was like an event that more than five villagers drown while trying to cross the low-lying Chilonga Bridge since 2000.
“We are very happy that IDBZ has allocated the money towards the development of the bridge and upgrading the road.”
Rtd Brig-Gen Gwanetsa said villagers had been struggling to access major services provided in Chiredzi, including the Registrar-General’s Office, Chiredzi General Hospital, the District Administrator’s Office and banks, especially during the rain season from November up to May.
He said the bridge’s construction will unlock significant value for the rest of Zimbabwe.
“Remember, this bridge makes it short for one intending to travel to Maputo,” said Rtd Brig-Gen Gwanetsa. “Mozambique has already developed a tarred road up to Sango Boarder Post and it was our turn to complete the cycle.”
Chief Sengwe said they were pleased with the news of the construction of the bridge.
“At first we thought Government no longer cared about the people of Sengwe and Matibi 2 Communal Lands,” he said. “We are, however, pleased with the news of the construction of an all-weather bridge across Runde River and we hope this will be done very fast.”
IDBZ has started inviting consultants to come forward and register for the project.
“The Infrastructure Development Bank of Zimbabwe has allocated a budget for the development of the proposed Chilonga-Runde River Bridge and Boli link road project in Masvingo Province, Zimbabwe and intend to apply part of this budget allocation towards payments under the contract for engagement of consultation to undertake a detailed feasibility study which includes technical, economic, financial, social and environmental viability assessment,” reads a statement from the bank.
Online Reporter