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Victor Maphosa-Mashonaland East Bureau
The upgrading of the Hwedza-Mushandirapamwe highway has started, with contractor Masimba Holdings now on site, as Government work tirelessly to improve road network throughout the country.
The road which is being upgraded under the Emergency Road Rehabilitation Programme phase 2 (ERRP2) links Hwedza Growth Point with Chitungwiza town through Seke and is a key link also to Marondera town.
The road is also critical for economic growth of Hwedza and other surrounding areas which include Sadza, Chigondo and Nhekairo.
Most farmers use the road to transport their produce to local markets in Mashonaland East Province as well as to Chitungwiza and Harare.
When The Herald toured the roadworks this week, the contractor was busy clearing a detour to be used as an alternative road, signifying the start of the main road upgrade.
Masimba Holdings will upgrade the road from Fels business centre going towards Mushandirapamwe business centre.
Villagers and motorists commended the Government for the project and appealed to the contractor to speed up the upgrade.
Mr Shingirai Nyandoro of ward 2, Hwedza said once the road is complete, farmers will have no headache in transporting their produce to the markets.
“The upgrade of this road by the Government will assist us as farmers to transport our produce to the nearest markets even to Harare.
“Even transport will be cheaper from Hwedza to Harare. We are happy that the Government is working to improve our roads.
“Its completion will also help in the business activity of our district. People travel to Harare, Marondera from Hwedza to make business activities which benefit us in Wedza. So we are happy as villagers,” he said
A motorist who refused to be named said it was hard for them to drive smoothly in the road and they were looking forward to a speedy completion of the upgrading process.
“We are happy with the upgrading process and we expect a good job here as motorists. We also expect the process to be completed soon because this narrow road is damaging our vehicles including our tyres.”
Another villager who refused to be named said it will take less time to travel to Harare from Hwedza if the road is completed compared to the actual time they take currently.
Ms Barbra Chigodora thanked the Government for the good work adding that the road, if complete, will also reduce the number of accidents since the days of driving on a narrow stretch will be over.
“If complete, we will travel safely in this road.
“This is good and we thank the Government for this, we hope the job will be done and completed as soon as possible. Thank you Government.”
Mashonaland East Provincial Engineer Mrs Martha Ndoro said the contractor will upgrade 22km of the road.
“Masimba Holdings has mobilised for the construction of 22 km. As for progress so far, they have done 3 km bush clearing and gravel stockpiling as well as camp establishment.”
Online Reporter