Malawi's Roads Authority (RA) has expressed confidence that the forthcoming rainy season will not disrupt major road rehabilitation works. According to RA spokesperson Lawrent Kumchenga, contractors have been instructed to factor the rainy season into their work programs. This preparation is expected to ensure that planned timelines are met. The assurance comes as the country prepares for the rainy season, with the Department of Meteorological Services predicting normal to above-normal rainfall in the Northern Region due to El Niño.
The RA provided an update on several key road and bridge projects. The rehabilitation of the Chiweta-Karonga section of the M1 road is set to start in November and is expected to take 60 days. This project aims to improve the condition of this critical section of the M1. Kumchenga stated that weather conditions are not expected to derail the planned timelines for these projects. The RA is working to ensure that all projects are completed as scheduled.
In Kasungu District, foundation works on the Mpasadzi Bridge, which was severely damaged by floods earlier this year, are almost finalized. Once these works are completed, the superstructure is expected to advance relatively quickly. The bridge has already been restored to a level that can safely accommodate vehicles of up to five tonnes while longer-term solutions are developed. This temporary restoration will help alleviate transportation challenges in the area.
The rehabilitation of the M1 from Kamuzu International Airport towards Chiweta, covering over 300 km, has been split into four lots. This section of the road is critical for transportation in the region. The RA is working to ensure that all sections are rehabilitated to improve the overall condition of the M1. The rehabilitation works are expected to enhance the transportation network and facilitate the movement of goods and people.
In the flood-hit Shire Valley, the Malawi Government, with World Bank support, is preparing to rehabilitate washed-away sections of roads. The rehabilitation of the Thabwa-Bangula and Thabwa-Chitseko-Seveni roads is set to commence. This project aims to restore critical transportation links in the region and improve access to communities affected by the floods.
However, the Transporters Association of Malawi (TAM) fears that the forthcoming rainy season will have an impact on transportation, including the transportation of fertilizers and other commodities under the Farm Inputs Subsidy Programme (Fisp). According to TAM spokesperson Frank Banda, the Chiweta-Karonga section of the M1 remains a significant challenge. Trucks transporting goods often get stuck on this section, which can disrupt the supply chain.
The Construction Industry Association of Malawi board vice-chairperson Kondwani Kadango noted that poor planning can affect road works during the rainy season. While some projects can be implemented during this period, careful planning is essential to ensure successful completion. The RA's preparations and planning will be crucial in minimizing disruptions to road rehabilitation works during the rainy season. The successful completion of these projects will have a positive impact on Malawi's transportation network.
Key points
- The Roads Authority has instructed contractors to factor the rainy season into their work programs to ensure planned timelines are met.
- The rehabilitation of the Chiweta-Karonga section of the M1 road is set to start in November and is expected to take 60 days.
- The Malawi Government, with World Bank support, is preparing to rehabilitate washed-away sections of roads in the flood-hit Shire Valley.
