Chinese miner rehabilitates BCC roads

Haulin Quarry Mine, a Chinese-owned mining company operating in Pumula, Bulawayo, has joined forces with local construction company ZADA to rehabilitate some of the city's most damaged roads. The initiative comes amid growing concerns over the poor state of Bulawayo's road network, which has been severely affected by recent heavy rains.

Bulawayo City Council has previously disclosed that approximately 70% of its roads have exceeded their lifespan and that about US$700 million is needed for comprehensive road rehabilitation.

Haulin's spokesperson and community liaison officer, Roderick Moyo, confirmed the company's commitment to supporting local infrastructure projects.

"We are collaborating on road resurfacing efforts, specifically targeting Ngena Road, which suffered significant damage during the 2024 rainy season," Moyo said.

He added that Haulin is currently involved in resurfacing a 10km unpaved road leading to St Peter's, providing 500 litres of diesel to fuel machinery and vehicles engaged in the project. Trucks are actively dumping road filler materials as part of the work.

In addition to road repairs, Haulin has donated 50 solar-powered street lights to be installed along Ngena Road in Pumula North's Ward 17.

"This significant initiative, developed in consultation with local residents last year, will greatly enhance safety and visibility in the area," Moyo noted.

Haulin Quarry Mine was granted permission by Bulawayo City Council in 2021 to establish operations, conducting quarry mining behind Pumula High School. The venture initially faced resistance from some residents who raised concerns over environmental contamination and structural damage to their homes caused by blasting.

There were even talks of legal action and petitions to Parliament aimed at stopping the mining operations in the residential suburb. However, Moyo stated that the company has since built positive relationships with the community by addressing their concerns.

Beyond infrastructure, Haulin is also supporting education in the area by providing financial assistance to students in nine local schools, covering Ordinary Level exam registration fees and outstanding school fees for some pupils.

The partnership between Haulin Quarry and ZADA represents a collaborative effort to improve Bulawayo's infrastructure and community well-being amid ongoing challenges with the city's deteriorating road network.