Trabablas Interchange eases congestion

The newly completed Trabablas Traffic Interchange has breathed new life into one of Harare's busiest road junctions, drastically improving traffic flow and turning a former congestion hotspot into a symbol of urban renewal.

Once known as the chaotic Mbudzi roundabout, the area was infamous for congestion caused by fruit and vegetable vendors spilling onto the roads, disorderly furniture sellers displaying bulky goods, and pirate taxis disrupting traffic. Encroachment onto pavements by hawkers created a hazardous mix of pedestrians and vehicles, resulting in frequent traffic snarls.

However, the multi-million-dollar interchange has transformed the space into a model of efficiency and order, drawing admiration from residents and commuters alike.

During a site visit by The Herald yesterday, locals of all ages were seen marveling at the infrastructure, taking photos, and enjoying the improved traffic environment. Elderly people, young couples, and families strolled around the interchange, some parking at a distance just to take in the sight.

Traffic flow was smooth and orderly, with motorists following designated routes and no vehicles reversing or causing disruptions. A friendly joint team of police and Traffic Safety Council officials assisted drivers with any questions about the new road signs, slowing down vehicles before entering the interchange to ensure safety.

Before the interchange, traffic jams would stretch from Zindoga shopping centre to the roundabout, taking up to four hours to navigate during peak times. Now, journeys that previously took over two hours - such as the trip to Glen Norah - are completed in under 30 minutes.

Residents have heaped praise on the project. "What is good is good; milk needs no seasoning," said Mr. Everson Magwenzi, expressing confidence in the interchange's design. "Those who haven't been here might criticize it, but once you come, you'll be wowed."

While some motorists initially feared getting lost, clear and conspicuous signage has helped ease concerns. Motorist Mr. Carlton Chaka noted, "The road signs are clear, but some drivers rush in at high speeds and miss them." Others pointed out that some confusion stems from drivers not being accustomed to reading or obeying road signs.

The area's previous disorderly appearance, dominated by vendors and blocked roads, has been replaced by neat pedestrian lanes and service roads. Many pedestrians, however, still prefer to walk along main lanes to enjoy views of the interchange.

"This place is nice," said Tadiwa, a local resident. "You can come here for a photoshoot. If you told someone who left the country five years ago, they wouldn't believe this is the old Mbudzi."

Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Advocate Felix Mhona highlighted the interchange's significance in Zimbabwe's broader development agenda.

"With the successful completion of this project, once a symbol of traffic jams and gridlocks, we are one step closer to President Mnangagwa's vision of an empowered, upper-middle-income society by 2030," Mhona said.

He reaffirmed the ministry's commitment to upgrading national infrastructure, stating, "We shall strive to ensure that our roads, railroads, inland waterways, airports, and other critical infrastructure meet world-class standards to facilitate national development."

The Trabablas Interchange stands as a beacon of progress and a testament to Zimbabwe's determination to create smoother, safer urban mobility for its citizens.