One-way traffic plan for Bulawayo CBD

Motorists and commuters in Bulawayo could soon see significant changes to traffic movement in the city centre, with the Bulawayo City Council (BCC) considering plans to convert Herbert Chitepo Street and Fort Street into one-way roads running in opposite directions.

The proposal forms part of the city's broader efforts to address increasing traffic congestion within the central business district, where growing vehicle volumes have placed pressure on existing road infrastructure and contributed to frequent bottlenecks during peak hours.

BCC spokesperson Nesisa Mpofu said the proposal is aimed at improving traffic flow, enhancing mobility and promoting road safety within the city.

"The City of Bulawayo is aware of the growing need to improve traffic flow within the central business district and the proposal forms part of the city’s broader traffic management plans," Mpofu said.

She cautioned, however, that the proposal is still at the planning stage and cannot be implemented until key infrastructure upgrades have been completed.

According to the council, major road rehabilitation works would first be required on Herbert Chitepo Street and Fort Street, as well as sections of Basch Street between 8th Avenue Extension and Falls Road, and between Khami Road and 13th Avenue.

Council also identified Steelworks Road as a critical route that would need to be upgraded and made fully trafficable to accommodate increased traffic volumes and provide alternative routes for motorists.

Mpofu said the city was determined to ensure that any changes to traffic patterns are supported by adequate infrastructure and do not simply shift congestion from one location to another.

The proposed one-way system is expected to improve the efficiency of traffic movement through the CBD, where narrow roads and increasing vehicle numbers have contributed to delays and congestion at key intersections.

Urban planning experts have long argued that one-way traffic systems can improve road capacity, reduce vehicle conflicts and shorten travel times in busy city centres when implemented alongside supporting infrastructure improvements.

Many cities around the world have adopted similar systems as part of wider traffic management strategies aimed at improving mobility, reducing congestion and enhancing safety for both motorists and pedestrians.

The proposal is part of ongoing efforts by the Bulawayo City Council to modernise the city's transport infrastructure and improve the efficiency of movement within the metropolitan area.

Mpofu said council continues to evaluate various traffic management interventions and that any final decision would be guided by infrastructure readiness and the need to develop a safe, efficient and sustainable transport network.

Although no implementation timeline has been announced, progress on road rehabilitation projects is expected to play a key role in determining when the proposed one-way traffic system can be introduced.

If approved and implemented, the changes would represent one of the most significant traffic management reforms undertaken in Bulawayo in recent years, potentially transforming the daily commute for thousands of motorists who travel through the city centre.