Richard Shumba
Motorists and commuters in Gweru will benefit from an extensive road rehabilitation program launched by the city council, as authorities aim to address the deteriorating road infrastructure and persistent drainage issues affecting the city.
The rehabilitation exercise commenced on Thursday, with construction teams beginning work on 6th Street in the Central Business District (CBD).
Resurfacing efforts are taking place between Leopold Takawira Street and Lobengula Avenue.
This project marks the beginning of a citywide initiative targeting roads in both commercial and residential areas.
City officials have indicated that the work will extend to other key roads within the CBD before moving on to major routes connecting suburbs and industrial zones.
Council engineer Edwin Matirongo spoke on the development, stating that the program aims not only to improve road conditions but also
to tackle drainage deficiencies that have worsened over the years, especially during heavy rainfall.
“Flooding and clogged drainage systems have become significant concerns in certain parts of the city, particularly during the rainy season.
To mitigate this problem, the council will increase the number of catch pits to channel runoff water into the sub-surface drainage system,”
said Matirongo.
This intervention comes at a time when residents have repeatedly expressed concerns over pothole-ridden roads, damaged road shoulders, and inadequate drainage, all of which have contributed to rapid road deterioration across several suburbs.
To enhance the longevity of repairs, the council has announced a shift from the previous practice of using gravel for temporary pothole sealing.
Future patching and rehabilitation work will now utilize asphalt surfacing, which is deemed stronger and more durable.
“We will no longer use gravel for pothole patching.
Asphalt provides more durable and long-lasting repairs, improving the lifespan of our roads and reducing the need for constant maintenance,” Matirongo added.
This change is expected to result in longer-lasting road repairs while decreasing the frequency of maintenance work that has previously strained councilresources.
Some motorists have welcomed this development, noting that poor road conditions have led to increased vehicle maintenance costs and made travel difficult in certain parts of the city.
The rehabilitation exercise is part of broader infrastructure upgrading efforts by the local authority, which aims to modernize public services and improve the movement of people and goods within the city.
The council has also urged motorists and pedestrians to exercise caution around construction zones while the rehabilitation work is underway
