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Zambia, Zimbabwe to ban heavy freight on Victoria Falls bridge
3 hrs ago |
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Zambia and Zimbabwe will restrict heavy trucks and trains from using the historic Victoria Falls Bridge, President Hakainde Hichilema announced during the Engineering Institution of Zambia conference.
The decision comes amid longstanding concerns over the structural integrity of the 120-year-old bridge, which was completed in 1905. Originally designed for lighter traffic, the bridge has faced mounting strain from modern heavy cargo volumes.
Authorities emphasized that the measure is intended to preserve the bridge's role as a tourism landmark and ensure safe passage for light vehicles and visitors. Bulk freight will be redirected to alternative corridors, including the Chirundu and Kazungula crossings.
The move aligns with recent infrastructure upgrades in the region, particularly the commissioning of the Kazungula Bridge. Built to handle heavy commercial traffic, Kazungula has already eased congestion and reduced reliance on the Victoria Falls crossing.
Officials noted that protecting the bridge is not only a matter of engineering safety but also of safeguarding one of southern Africa's most iconic tourist attractions.
Officials noted that protecting the bridge is not only a matter of engineering safety but also of safeguarding one of southern Africa's most iconic tourist attractions.
The decision comes amid longstanding concerns over the structural integrity of the 120-year-old bridge, which was completed in 1905. Originally designed for lighter traffic, the bridge has faced mounting strain from modern heavy cargo volumes.
Authorities emphasized that the measure is intended to preserve the bridge's role as a tourism landmark and ensure safe passage for light vehicles and visitors. Bulk freight will be redirected to alternative corridors, including the Chirundu and Kazungula crossings.
The move aligns with recent infrastructure upgrades in the region, particularly the commissioning of the Kazungula Bridge. Built to handle heavy commercial traffic, Kazungula has already eased congestion and reduced reliance on the Victoria Falls crossing.
Officials noted that protecting the bridge is not only a matter of engineering safety but also of safeguarding one of southern Africa's most iconic tourist attractions.
Officials noted that protecting the bridge is not only a matter of engineering safety but also of safeguarding one of southern Africa's most iconic tourist attractions.
Zambia and Zimbabwe will restrict heavy trucks and trains from using the Victoria Falls Bridge. pic.twitter.com/65yYIBjjLj
— Bulawayo24 News (@Bulawayo24News) April 19, 2026
Source - Byo24News
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