Online Reporter
Debra Matabvu
The rehabilitation of Madzima Road in Norton – one of the town’s busiest and most critical access routes – has begun, the Zimbabwe National Road Administration (ZINARA) has announced.
The road, which links Katanga Shopping Centre to the Commercial Centre and passes through two schools and surrounding residential areas, serves thousands of students, families and businesses daily.
Its reconstruction is expected to significantly improve mobility and safety for residents.
According to ZINARA, the scope of the project involves several key engineering processes designed to strengthen the road and extend its lifespan.
The works include using the existing surface as subgrade, which means the current road surface will be compacted and repurposed as the lower foundational layer.
This provides structural support for the new road.
An additional base with cement stabilisation will then be added.
This involves mixing crushed stone with cement and water to form a strong, stable base layer, reducing the risk of potholes and premature road failure.
For the final road surface, engineers will apply a 19mm tack coat, which is a thin layer of adhesive bitumen that binds the base to the new asphalt surface.
This will be followed by a 10mm seal, a protective asphalt layer designed to waterproof the road, improve durability and create a smoother driving surface.
The project also includes 150 metres of drain lining, which involves installing concrete or stone linings in roadside drains to ensure effective water flow, reduce erosion and prevent flooding that could damage the new road.
