Online Reporter
Herald Reporter
The construction of the new Dema Toll Plaza along the Chitungwiza-Wedza highway is on track, with the completion deadline set for the fourth quarter of the year, Zinara has announced.
The Dema Toll Plaza project is part of Zinara’s drive to modernise tolling infrastructure, aimed at easing congestion, improving efficiency, and enhancing convenience for motorists while securing additional revenue for road development.
Furthermore, the plaza will also see the upgrade of Seke Road, providing traffic from Marondera with an alternative route to Harare.
In a statement, Zinara indicated that the upgrade will replace the current two-lane system with a modern six-lane toll plaza system to accommodate rising traffic volumes. Of these six lanes, two will be equipped with an e-tag system to offer greater convenience for the motoring public.
“This upgrade is a key milestone in our efforts to transform tolling infrastructure across the country,” said Zinara. “The new Dema toll plaza will reduce congestion and provide a faster, more convenient experience for motorists.”
Other features of the toll plaza will include a durable canopy, enhanced lighting, safety signage, rumble strips, and a three-tier backup power system to ensure uninterrupted operations. Zinara also stated that a 24/7 vehicle licensing office will be integrated into the plaza to improve licensing compliance and bring services closer to motorists.
“Motorists will be able to license their vehicles at the toll plaza at any time of the day,” Zinara said.
“This will significantly improve compliance and alleviate the burden on existing licensing centres.”
Major progress has been made on the project thus far, with the canopy structure completed and the administration and support offices under construction. Civil works, lane demarcations, and system installations are set to commence in the coming weeks.
Zinara stated: “The project is progressing well, and we are working tirelessly to meet the fourth-quarter commissioning timeline. Once operational, the Dema toll plaza will mark a new standard in tolling efficiency and revenue security on the Zimtoll tolling side.”
The upgrade comes as Dema experiences rapid and expansive urban growth, which has increased traffic volumes and congestion at the existing tollgate. “Upgrading Dema is about preparing for the future,” said Zinara. “As traffic grows, our systems must keep pace to support the country’s road development agenda.”
