Mtshabezi River Bridge closed for repairs

Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, [email protected]

MTSHABEZI River Bridge will be closed from March 27 to 29 2026 to pave way for repairs on the bridge which was damaged by flooding.

In a statement the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development urged motorists to use alternative routes and comply with authorities as the problem is being rectified.

“The Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development wishes to advise the motoring public of a temporary interruption of traffic on a section of Old Gwanda Road at Mtshabezi River Bridge to facilitate essential bridge repair works. The affected road section shall be temporarily closed from 27 March 2026 to 29 March 2026.

“Motorists are strongly encouraged to use alternative routes and allow extra travel time for delays. Please exercise patience, caution, and obey all road signs and instructions from traffic controllers. We appreciate your cooperation during this essential infrastructure repair exercise. The Ministry regrets any inconvenience caused and appreciates the public cooperation and understanding during this important infrastructure repair exercise,” reads the statement.

Works are also underway to clear trees that are blocking passage of water along Mtshabezi River.

The bridge is part of infrastructure that was damaged by floods after a dam in the area breached leading to a disruption of major services among them supply of water to the mining town. The bridge links Gwanda town to Blanket Mine, Maphisa District and several business centres.

The flooding which was experienced over the weekend has disrupted water supply in the town as the Gwanda Municipality water pumping house was flooded damaging some equipment in the process. The local authority has promised to have water supply restored by end of Friday. The town has gone for five days without water.

A make shift foot bridge which was also damaged is set to be repaired. Members of the business community have partnered with Government to carry out these repairs.