Beitbridge starts cleaning blocked stormwater drains

Beitbridge Municipality has embarked on a programme to clean blocked storm-water drains across the border town ahead of the rainy season, in an effort to curb flooding and safeguard infrastructure.

The exercise targets low-lying suburbs such as Dulivhadzimu, the old bus terminus, and council hostels, which have often borne the brunt of flooding.

Mayor Councillor Peter Pirato Mafuta, in a statement on Thursday, said maintaining the town's infrastructure was critical to prevent damage and disruptions.

"I am pleased to report that we are currently doing drainage cleaning and pothole patching, and we have employed a Civil Technician (Roads)," he said. "We hope there will be more progress before the onset of the rainy season. Our team is also working around the clock to clear sewer blockages that have become a serious concern."

Clr Mafuta added that senior management had been tasked with exploring long-term interventions to end recurrent sewer blockages.

On service delivery, the mayor highlighted several projects underway, including the construction of the Dulivhadzimu bus terminus, improving water and sewer systems, and the building of Wamlala Road linking Dulivhadzimu and Khwalu suburbs, which is set to commence next week after funding from the Zimbabwe National Road Administration (ZINARA).

He confirmed that water reticulation remained stable following the settlement of the council's debt with the Zimbabwe National Water Authority (ZINWA), which had previously disrupted supplies.

Turning to labour matters, Clr Mafuta said efforts were being made to clear salary arrears, with plans to offset at least one month's backlog in October and to settle all arrears by year-end.

The mayor also encouraged residents to play their part by settling bills to enable the municipality to expand people-centred service delivery. He appealed for greater civic participation during upcoming budget consultations and urged the community to work with the council in fighting littering and drug abuse.

"As the year winds down, we will soon begin budget consultations. I appeal to all of us to participate fully. We are committed to listening and taking on board both criticisms and suggestions," he said.

Clr Mafuta added that the municipality's collaborative approach with community members had already eased logistical challenges, including the transportation of materials for the new bus terminus.

With drainage clearance, roadworks, and water supply improvements underway, Beitbridge Municipality hopes to strengthen resilience against seasonal challenges while advancing long-term development goals.