Staff Reporter
Chiredzi – The government requires at least US$75 million to construct a new all-weather bridge across the Runde River at Chilonga, linking the rural Chikombedzi area with Chiredzi Town, the district’s commercial hub.
The call for a permanent bridge has grown louder after heavy rains swept away the existing low-level bridge, cutting off a vital transport link.
The temporary crossing, frequently submerged during the rainy season, has long posed risks to travelers.
Chiredzi District Development Coordinator Lovemore Chisema confirmed that US$2 million has been released for emergency repairs while funding for the new bridge is being mobilized.
“The government is working on securing funds for a modern, all-weather bridge at Chilonga, which will provide the shortest and safest route between Chikombedzi and Chiredzi Town,” said Chisema.
“In the meantime, we have repaired the low-level crossing to ease movement, as this route shortens the journey by about 80 kilometers compared to alternative roads.”
The community has been supplementing repairs by placing rocks and stones to make the damaged crossing passable. However, locals continue to push for a permanent solution to prevent further tragedies.
“Every year, we lose lives to drowning when people attempt to cross the flooded river,” a Chilonga resident said.
“We need a proper bridge now.”
Another bridge downstream at Chipinda Pools in Gonarezhou National Park remains unusable after being destroyed by Cyclone Eline over two decades ago.
Authorities say construction of the new Chilonga bridge will begin once full funding is secured, ensuring safer and more reliable connectivity for the region.
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