Several workers from the Italian contractor Salin Impregilo were last week sent on unpaid leave and it has emerged that several companies subcontracted to undertake some of the work have advised their workers not to report for duty until further notice.
"We have been ordered to go home until the government secures further funding but I think this is just going to be for a small period," said one of the workers who requested anonymity because he is not allowed to speak to the press.
Masvingo Provincial Administrator Felix Chikovo could neither confirm nor deny the work stoppage. "I have also received such word that there is some stoppage at the dam but I think these are just lies,” he said.
An official from Salin Impregilo confirmed the work stoppage but added that it was just a temporary setback. Work on the giant dam started in 1998 but a series of stoppages has hindered its progress.
According to the Zimbabwe National Water Authority officials the project is expected to gobble $430 million and should be completed in August. So far, according to engineers, about $181 million has been used.
Post published in: News