Collapsed Majazi bridge sparks concerns in Bulilima District

The collapse of Majazi Bridge along the Plumtree-Bambadzi Road has sparked significant concern among residents and authorities. The bridge, located in Hingwe ward, is now completely impassable and deteriorating further with each passing storm, posing a serious challenge to local communities and the regional economy.

Majazi Bridge is a critical infrastructure connecting Bulilima district to the Maitengwe Border Post, facilitating cross-border trade with Botswana and South Africa. Its collapse has disrupted transportation, especially during peak travel seasons such as the festive period when many Zimbabweans visit their families abroad. The inability to access the bridge is causing significant delays and additional travel costs for those needing to navigate the region.
Other Affected Bridges and Infrastructure

The Bulilima Rural District Council has highlighted other compromised infrastructure, including Makawule Bridge at Ndiweni ward and Gambu Bridge in Matjinge ward. Additionally, the causeway across Makawule River along the Plumtree-Bhagane main road is also damaged, making travel increasingly difficult.

Bulilima District Development Co-ordinator, Mr. Onesimo Zogara, emphasized the urgency of addressing the deteriorating state of roads and bridges in the district. He pointed out that most roads in Bulilima are gravel and require regular maintenance, which has been hindered by a lack of adequate equipment.

"The Emergency Road Rehabilitation Programme (ERRP) by the Government has been very instrumental in ensuring that our roads are rehabilitated, but there is a great need to capacitate our Road Authorities with the much-needed yellow machines so that there is no over-reliance on outsourcing equipment and hiring, which is costly and time-consuming," said Mr. Zogara.

Deputy Minister of Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services, Dingumuzi Phuti, echoed similar sentiments, calling for swift action from the Ministry of Transport. He highlighted the economic impact, stating that Majazi Bridge is essential for sustaining cross-border trade that has historically supported the local economy.

"The issue of Majazi Bridge is not an issue of budget but an issue of commitment and resolve on the part of the Ministry of Transport at the provincial level. We have communicated several times, but nothing has been done. This bridge is critical for trade between Zimbabwe, Botswana, and South Africa," said Phuti.

Phuti stressed that repairing the bridge would alleviate unnecessary costs for local villagers, who are forced to take longer, more expensive routes to access services. He expressed confidence in the Second Republic's dedication to addressing infrastructure needs, ensuring that residents receive the services they deserve.

There are ongoing plans for maintenance and upgrades, with tenders awarded for the repair of Plumtree-Maitengwe and Plumtree-Ndolwane roads. Additionally, the government is considering the tarrying of Plumtree-Maitengwe Road to enhance transportation in the region.

In the meantime, local authorities and legislators continue to push for immediate interventions to restore essential infrastructure, ensuring the smooth flow of goods and services across the region.