Zimpapers Logo

Patrick Chitumba, Midlands Bureau Chief
GWERU City Council (GCC) has started implementing the second phase of the emergency road rehabilitation programme after receiving $2,3 million from the Zimbabwe National Road Authority (Zinara).

The rehabilitation works are being undertaken by Bitumen World (Pvt) Ltd, a company which won the multi-million dollar tender for the rehabilitation of roads.

Gweru Town clerk Ms Elizabeth Gwatipedza confirmed that they have started the road rehabilitation project.

“We have given a company called Bitumen World a $2, 3 million tender to rehabilitate some roads under the emergency roads rehabilitation programme phase two. Roads earmarked are Senga roundabout road which goes right to the gate of Midlands State University and that will cost $,1,8 million. The rest of the money will be used to rehabilitate some portions of roads in Mkoba,” said Ms Gwatipedza.

She said part of Senga road will be resealed and the other part will have an asphalt overlay. Ms Gwatipedza said in September, council used $1, 3 million to rehabilitate roads in the city centre and Mkoba suburbs.

“As long as we get the funds from Zinara and our own sources, we will continue prioritising road maintenance,” she said.

Ms Gwatipedza said her council was looking for $500 000 for proper public lighting.

“Our streets need lighting and that will come at a cost of over $500 000 which we don’t have at the moment. But we will continue looking for funding. We are also calling on community members to participate in activities such as cleaning of storm drains and I believe it is cheaper if we consider community engagement for some small programmes,” she said.