Flooded streets, hidden potholes turn Gweru into danger zone

EVERY time it rains, Gweru’s streets become treacherous, exposing a failing drainage system that leaves residents wading through murky floodwater and motorists battling hidden potholes that damage vehicles and threaten lives.

Slippery pavements, flooded roads and water filled craters have become a familiar — and dangerous — sight as heavy rains continue to pound the city.

Gweru Residents Trust acting chairperson, Mr Obvious Gonamombe, said the downpours had laid bare long standing infrastructure shortcomings.

“Every rainfall turns the city into a hazard zone. Slippery pavements and submerged potholes make even short walks risky,” he said.

Residents, Mr Gonamombe added, are often forced to wade through deep water simply to cross roads.

“People dodge debris and blocked drains to get to work or school. It’s unsafe and unacceptable,” he said.
Motorists are also bearing the brunt of deteriorating road conditions.

“My car’s suspension has already been damaged. I don’t know how much more it can take,” said Ms Annabelle Moyo from Woodlands suburb. She called on council to urgently fix drainage and road infrastructure.

Responding to the concerns, Gweru Mayor Councillor Martin Chivhoko acknowledged the challenges and said rehabilitation works would begin once rainfall intensity subsides.

“We are currently flushing catch pits and desilting side drains along major walkways in the CBD and will expand to residential areas,” he said.

Clr Chivhoko said major pothole repairs and road rehabilitation would commence as soon as weather conditions improve.

Meanwhile, Kwekwe has also been severely affected, with roads deteriorating rapidly as potholes “sprout like mushrooms” following heavy rains.

Motorists there say driving has become a daily gamble.

“The roads are a nightmare. I’m damaging my car every time I drive. This is not just about vehicles, it’s a safety issue, especially at night,” said Mr Marcus Nyirenda from Amaveni suburb.

Kwekwe City Council town clerk, Dr Lucia Mkandhla, confirmed that flooding had worsened the state of roads across the city.

“The abnormal rains have affected all roads, both gravel and tar, resulting in potholes citywide,” she said.
Dr Mkandhla said routine maintenance and restoration works were ongoing and budgeted for, although final figures were still awaiting approval from the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works.