Chronicle Editor
Mthabisi Tshuma, Gwanda Correspondent
WORK to rehabilitate the Mbembesi River Bridge along the Beitbridge-Bulawayo highway is almost complete with the cost of repairs estimated at US$180 000.
Rains undercut the bridge a fortnight ago after a section of stoppage rocks was swept away leading to the temporary closure of the road.
Road authorities then decided to allow traffic to pass using only one lane during the day and the road was closed during the night.
Incessant rains experienced in Matabeleland South Province have, like in other parts of the country led to the destruction of roads and bridges.
The Beitbridge-Bulawayo highway along which the Mbembesi Bridge is located has also not been spared as it is now filled with potholes.
Matabeleland South Provincial Roads Engineer, Engineer Joseph Makokobe yesterday said major works have been completed.
“Repairs to the damaged approach have been done while what’s outstanding is protection works which is only possible when the water level subsides. Cost of damage was approximately US$180 000 with major renovations attended to by last week around Wednesday,” said Eng Makokobe.
He said officials from his department are currently conducting surveys countrywide to ascertain the extent of damages on the country’s road network.
Cabinet recently declared the country’s road network a state of disaster as most of the roads have been damaged.
The declaration will trigger mobilisation and the release of funds to attend to the roads. — @mthabisi_mthire
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