Phase 1 rehabilitation of the US $21m Makuti-Chirundu Road in Zimbabwe project including widening, smoothening of sharp curves and construction of climbing lanes at Marongora is now complete. The rehabilitated road is expected to reduce the number of accidents that were rampant due to failure to negotiate steep descents, ascents and sharp curves. The road is now complete with road marking, signs, cat eyes and barricades
The project has upgraded the 6.5km stretch to world class standards, which is in line with the government’s overall plan to facilitate trade through upgrading of roads on the North-South Corridor. The road covers the stretch from Marongora to Hells Gate or Mana Pools turn-off.
Also Read: Rehabilitation of roads in Matabeleland South, Zimbabwe intensify
Management of the road
The contractor, Dai Nippon Construction (DNC), working with the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development, undertook the project and remains on site to conduct inspections and repairs, if need arises, for the next year.
According to Mashonaland West Provincial Development Coordinator (PDC) Mr Josphat Jaji, completion of the first phase, which was launched by President Mnangagwa in August 2019 is now complete but the constructor is still on the ground. “This in line with conditions of the contract that they will maintain the Makuti-Chirundu Road for a year before it is left to the Department of Roads,” he said.
The impressive workmanship has been hailed by motorists who called for expansion of the project to cover other parts that are now pothole riddled. Mr John Kasembo from the DRC said that the project is a welcome development which will give a better driving experience for across borders motorists “It was painful to see some of our colleagues dying on the road especially at Marongora where the curves were too sharp making it difficult for trucks to navigate,” he added.
