Online Reporter
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, [email protected]
RECURRING floods at Mtshabezi River Bridge have once again exposed critical infrastructure gaps in Gwanda, with the Government now pushing to deliver a lasting solution to a decades-old problem that continues to disrupt livelihoods and economic activity.
Motorists and travellers were left stranded on Wednesday (yesterday)morning after the low-lying bridge was submerged following heavy overnight rains, cutting off a key link between Gwanda town, surrounding rural communities and major economic hubs.
Matabeleland South Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Albert Nguluvhe, said the situation can no longer be treated as routine, stressing the urgent need for a permanent fix.
“This problem has persisted for a long time and the heavy rains we have received this farming season have worsened the situation. The bridge has been flooded several times, disrupting movement for both vehicles and pedestrians,” he said.
“We will be engaging relevant authorities to come up with a lasting solution. People have raised concerns over the years, and there is now a clear need for decisive action.”
The Mtshabezi River Bridge is a critical lifeline, linking Gwanda to key facilities including mines, irrigation schemes, business centres and the Maphisa area. Its repeated closure has far-reaching implications for workers, businesses and communities that depend on the route daily.
On Wednesday(yesterday), the swelling river rendered the crossing impassable, with more rain forecast in the coming days, raising fears of prolonged disruption.
The district Civil Protection Committee has since intensified monitoring efforts, while law enforcement agents have been deployed to prevent loss of life as some residents attempt to cross flooded sections.
Gwanda District Disaster Risk Reduction focal person, Mr Awakhiwe Moyo, urged the public to exercise extreme caution.
“Mtshabezi Bridge is currently impassable due to flooding. Motorists and pedestrians are advised to be patient and avoid taking risks as the water is flowing powerfully. Authorities are continuing with assessments in other parts of the district and a routine check update will follow once the assessment is complete,” he said.
The latest incident has also left pedestrians more vulnerable after a makeshift footbridge, which is often used as an alternative during floods, was damaged.
Built in the 1980s for a much smaller population, the bridge has long outlived its capacity. The continuous expansion of Gwanda, coupled with increased mining and commercial activity, has significantly raised traffic volumes beyond what the narrow structure can safely handle.
Local community members said the situation has become a seasonal crisis.
Mr Shepherd Nkomo, a local motorist who commutes daily to a nearby mine, said the flooding has repeatedly affected his ability to work.
“I use that bridge every day, but today I couldn’t cross. With the rains continuing, we expect more disruptions this week. We have been calling for the upgrade of this bridge for years, but nothing has changed,” he said.
Another motorist, Mr Thabani Nkomo, said the flooding had disrupted his business operations after he failed to deliver stock.
“This is a major inconvenience. As businesspeople, we depend on that route. There is also fear that the bridge, given its age, could be damaged further by these heavy rains,” he said.
