Bridges in Maphisa desilted ahead of Independence celebrations

Authorities have begun clearing sand from bridges in Maphisa as part of infrastructure preparations ahead of this year's Zimbabwe Independence Day commemorations.

Engineers say several bridges had become partially blocked by sand deposits following heavy rains, reducing the capacity of waterways beneath the structures and raising concerns about possible flooding and road safety.

The ongoing works were highlighted during a media tour of infrastructure projects in Matabeleland South on Thursday led by the Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development, Felix Mhona.

Provincial roads engineer Mangisi Nkomo said inspections revealed that sand had completely filled the waterway beneath at least one bridge.

"Our bridge up to depth level is around 1.8 metres, and the entire 1.8 metres waterway has been covered by sand," he said. "So we prescribed that the contractor do desiltation."

Nkomo said engineers had initially considered installing culvert pipes on top of the bridge as a temporary measure to improve water flow. However, the plan was abandoned because the current rainy season would make it difficult to create a safe detour for traffic.

"We actually had two interventions which we had proposed, that is putting some culvert pipes on top of the bridge, but because we are going through a wet season we cannot put a detour, so we resorted to desilting," he said.

Under the current plan, contractors will remove sand up to 100 metres on either side of the bridge and across a 40-metre stretch of the river in a bid to reopen the blocked waterway.

Officials say the work is meant to reduce the risk of flooding and prevent potential structural damage to the bridges.

Meanwhile, the Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Daniel Garwe, raised safety concerns over the narrowness of some bridges in the area.

"It will be necessary to put some sign posts because some of the bridges are very narrow. There are certain things that we can't change when it's too late," he said.

Nkomo added that authorities would ensure adequate road signage is installed to warn motorists and improve safety along the affected routes.

The desilting exercise forms part of broader infrastructure works in Maphisa as the Government prepares to host this year's national Zimbabwe Independence Day celebrations there, with officials focusing on ensuring that roads and related infrastructure remain safe and accessible for residents and visitors expected to attend the event.