Don’t let sub-par roadworks mar progress

Your Money, Your Call

Cresencia Marjorie Chiremba

THE country’s roads, particularly in Harare, have been undergoing major rehabilitation under the Government’s Emergency Road Rehabilitation Programme (ERRP).

The drive is aimed at improving traffic flow, especially during peak hours.

This development is expected to have a positive impact on the economy as the country’s road network is a key business enabler.

However, there are concerns that the effort will be in vain if some of the contractors do not bring their A game to the fore. This is particularly the case at the Kuwadzana roundabout.

The quality of work by the contracted company seems sub-par, disappointing drivers and potentially undermining the Government’s efforts.

This specific roundabout was identified as a crucial point for improvement, potentially with the intention of adding a filter lane to ease traffic flow.

However, it appears the current project around the Kuwadzana roundabout is being poorly executed.

The newly built filter lane is already damaged, suggesting poor construction methods or materials.

This stands in stark contrast to the filter lane built at the Warren Park roundabout, which remains in good condition.

The filter lane at the Kuwadzana roundabout is not only unsightly, but also creates a significant inconvenience for drivers who expected an improvement.

Similarly, the rapid decline in its condition raises serious questions about the quality of materials used by the contractor and whether the firm followed proper construction standards.

Residents feel cheated by the poor quality work, especially considering that they were promised improved commutes. Their disappointment is understandable given the roundabout’s importance during peak hours. The pre-existing congestion and reports of smash-and-grab incidents highlight the safety hazards caused by the poor road conditions.

The ERRP is supposed to be a positive step by the authorities to improve infrastructure and quality of life. However, the below- standard construction at the Kuwadzana roundabout and some areas around the capital is threatening the effectiveness of the programme.

The Government, through the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development, must swiftly address the sub-par construction work at the roundabout and hold those responsible accountable.

The contractor’s failure to deliver a properly built filter lane reflects poorly on their company.

Restoring public trust will not be an easy task, but it is essential and must be done.

Such contractors must be held accountable to ensure that public infrastructure projects meet the highest standards. This could involve penalising the contractor.

Decisive action should be taken to ensure such cases do not arise in future.

Cresencia Marjorie Chiremba is a marketing consultant with a strong passion for customer service/experience. For comments, suggestions and training, she can be reached at: [email protected] or +263712979461, 0719978335, 0772978335.