The RDA says it is awaiting a report expected to be available by March
27 Friday this week from RDA Consultant, Brain Cohulhun to ascertain
the cost of the damaged portion and consequent re-designing of the road.
RDA Public Relations Manager Loyce Saili, who went to check on the
ground said that the road is now usable by the traveling motorists, She
told reporters at the site in Chirundu yesterday that she is happy that
there are no marooned vehicles on the either side of the road.
Ms. Saili said the Agency contracted Sable Transport and Construction
Company to construct a diversion which motorists are for the time being
using.
She said once the report is ready and studied, the road will be
properly repaired. She cautioned the motorists to adhere to the
Contractor's instructions to avoid a possible congestion' when using
the make-shift diversion.
Some drivers told ZANIS that they are happy that the road is now
passable. John Lungu, a mini-bus driver commended government for the
quick intervention by providing a make-shift diversion.
On Friday last week Southern Province was completely cut from the rest
of the country when a culvert on the Chirundu/Livingstone Road was
damaged.
Works and Supply Minister Mike Mulongoti rushed to the area to
ascertain the damage caused. Mr. Mulogoti described the damaged portion
on the road as not very extensive.
Over the weekend, President Rupiah Banda also visited the site. The
Head of State directed the Office of the Vice President to be
conducting regular maintainance work because a good road network is
vital to accelerating economic development.
The Chirundu/Livingstone road connects Zambia to neighbouring Zimbabwe as well as Botswana and Namibia.
Lusaka Times
Post published in: Economy