By Arnold Tutu
A section of the Monze–Niko Road in Southern Province has been temporarily closed following damage to culverts caused by recent heavy rainfall.
Road Development Agency –RDA- Chief Communications and Corporate Affairs Manager ANTHONY MULOWA says the affected stretch lies between kilometre 46 and kilometre 48 in the Bweengwa area of Monze District.
Mr. MULOWA says the closure is meant to allow for assessment and repair works on the damaged culverts along the old road alignment, which is currently being used as construction of a new bridge continues.
He explains that the damage was caused by heavy rains experienced over the past two days, coupled with debris from upstream that partially blocked the culverts.
In a statement to ZNBC news, Mr. MULOWA said this led to restricted water flow, a build-up of water and eventual over-topping.
He noted that the Monze–Niko Road, which spans 71 kilometres, is currently being upgraded to bituminous standard whose works include replacing old Armco culverts and constructing a new bridge across the Bweengwa Stream.
Mr. MULOWA further said construction of the bridge has advanced, with the substructure already completed, and works on the superstructure are expected to begin soon.
Motorists travelling to Niko and Namwala have since been advised to use the Choma route as efforts are underway to restore access on the affected section.
