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NRZ clarifies viral security wall built over rail line in Harare
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The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) has issued a statement clarifying the origins and context of a security wall built across a railway track in the Willowvale industrial area of Harare, after images of the wall went viral on social media over the weekend, sparking widespread public concern.
In a press release, the NRZ said it had been inundated with inquiries about the wall, prompting the state-owned entity to launch a fact-finding mission. The investigation revealed that the wall was constructed over a disused and privately owned railway siding that once serviced a now-defunct factory at 44 Tilbury Road. The property is currently undergoing demolition after being acquired by a Chinese-owned company in 2023.
"These sidings are privately owned and are typically used by companies that require goods to be transported by rail from our main yards directly to their premises," NRZ explained. "This particular siding is no longer in use and does not fall under NRZ's operational jurisdiction."
According to NRZ, the structure was erected by the new owners of the property to secure their premises and deter theft. A company director identified as Ms Li told NRZ officials that the wall was built as a security measure to protect the site from intruders.
"The NRZ does not have any mandate over the disused line, but we understand that the City of Harare is currently looking into the matter," the statement added.
The viral images of a concrete wall seemingly built directly across a railway track led to speculation and criticism over potential safety risks and questions about urban planning and enforcement. However, NRZ's clarification appears to place the responsibility for the construction squarely on the private owners of the former industrial site.
The City of Harare has not yet issued its own formal response, but with public attention focused on the matter, more details are expected in the coming days regarding the legality and approval of the wall's construction.
In a press release, the NRZ said it had been inundated with inquiries about the wall, prompting the state-owned entity to launch a fact-finding mission. The investigation revealed that the wall was constructed over a disused and privately owned railway siding that once serviced a now-defunct factory at 44 Tilbury Road. The property is currently undergoing demolition after being acquired by a Chinese-owned company in 2023.
"These sidings are privately owned and are typically used by companies that require goods to be transported by rail from our main yards directly to their premises," NRZ explained. "This particular siding is no longer in use and does not fall under NRZ's operational jurisdiction."
"The NRZ does not have any mandate over the disused line, but we understand that the City of Harare is currently looking into the matter," the statement added.
The viral images of a concrete wall seemingly built directly across a railway track led to speculation and criticism over potential safety risks and questions about urban planning and enforcement. However, NRZ's clarification appears to place the responsibility for the construction squarely on the private owners of the former industrial site.
The City of Harare has not yet issued its own formal response, but with public attention focused on the matter, more details are expected in the coming days regarding the legality and approval of the wall's construction.
Source - byo24news
