Online Reporter
Lovemore Kadzura
Post Reporter
MUTARE City Council has embarked on the tarring of the busy 9km stretch of Magamba Road, a project aimed at easing transport challenges for residents and businesses, while improving traffic flow.
Work began last week on one of Mutare’s key routes, long plagued by potholes, dust, and poor drainage, especially during the rainy season.
Sections of the road have already been closed to motorists as construction progresses.
The road suffered extensive damage last year when it was used as a detour for haulage trucks barred from passing through the Central Business District during the Hlanganani/Sanganayi/Kumbanayi Tourism Expo and ZANU PF’s National People’s Conference, both hosted in Mutare.
City Council spokesperson, Mr Charles Sadondo, said the rehabilitation is part of a broader infrastructure development programme designed to strengthen road networks and support economic activity in the eastern border city.
“The tarring of Magamba Road is a priority project due to its high traffic volumes and its importance in linking residential areas with the Central Business District and nearby institutions. The contractor is on site. About 9km will be attended under the current project.
“Work has been halted because of the current rains that we are experiencing in the city. We expect progress soon after the rains. Besides Magamba, we are also carrying out pothole patching across major roads in the city including Kumbirai Kangai (Aerodrome) Road and Herbert Chitepo Street. We have also been doing gravel pothole patching across the city, focusing mainly on commuter routes to enhance traficability,” said Mr Sadondo.
Magamba Road is widely used by commuter omnibuses, private vehicles, and delivery trucks, with motorists often forced to navigate damaged sections that slow movement and increase vehicle maintenance costs.
Residents and transport operators have welcomed the development, expressing optimism that the upgrade will reduce travel times and improve safety.
During this rainy season, most commuter omnibus operators shun Magamba Road due to potholes that litter the length and breadth of the road.
“This road has been in a bad state for years and it worsened last year when it was used by haulage trucks. During the rainy season, it becomes almost impassable. If they complete this project properly, it will make a big difference to our daily operations.” said one commuter omnibus driver.
