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Trust Freddy
Online Correspondent
The implementation of the much-anticipated Christmas Pass bypass project in Manicaland province has officially kicked off, with bush clearing operations now in full swing, the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development has said.
This comes as road accidents have become a regular occurrence at the Christmas Pass curves along the Mutare-Harare Highway, with several lives and properties lost over the years, as hardly a week passes without an incident being reported.
In a statement, the ministry described the bypass as a game-changer for Manicaland’s transport network.
“The much-anticipated Christmas Pass bypass construction project has taken a significant step forward as bush clearing operations are now in full swing,” read part of the statement.
“This critical preparatory phase marks the beginning of a transformative infrastructure initiative aimed at improving traffic flow, enhancing road safety, and boosting connectivity in Manicaland Province.”
The development of the 31,2 kilometre route seeks to divert transport that passes through the Central Business District to and from Forbes Border Post is expected to reduce the number of accidents, particularly at Christmas Pass, which has become a black spot.
The bypass that will pass through Feruka on the outskirts of Mutare Central Business District (CBD) was proposed in 1992 for use by haulage trucks.
“The Christmas Pass bypass is a strategic infrastructure project designed to alleviate congestion along the existing Christmas Pass route, a key transport corridor linking Mutare to other major regions,” the ministry said.
“The by-pass road will primarily serve to redirect heavy haulage traffic away from the Christmas Pass.
“Once completed, the bypass will provide a smoother, safer, and more efficient alternative for heavy haulage, reducing travel time and supporting regional trade.”
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