Staff Reporter
Chiredzi \u2013 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\u2019s commercial hub.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The temporary crossing, frequently submerged during the rainy season, has long posed risks to travelers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
“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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
“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.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
“Every year, we lose lives to drowning when people attempt to cross the flooded river,” a Chilonga resident said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
“We need a proper bridge now.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Another bridge downstream at Chipinda Pools in Gonarezhou National Park remains unusable after being destroyed by Cyclone Eline over two decades ago.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Authorities say construction of the new Chilonga bridge will begin once full funding is secured, ensuring safer and more reliable connectivity for the region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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