Time to repair our roads
Heavy rains have been pounding parts of the country. In some places, it has claimed human lives, destroyed property and rendered regional roads impassable. It is difficult to establish the loss so far incurred, but by any standards, it will run into billions of shillings. As we send our deepest condolences to all those who have lost their beloved ones due to the on-going rains, we call upon authorities and the public in general to do all in their powers to avert further human and property losses.
Moreover, it is high time relevant authorities—Tanzania National Roads Agency and district or municipal authorities—started establishing what it would take to repair the damaged roads and bridges.
Almost all roads in Dar es Salaam, for example, have been damaged. Potholes have developed, bridges have been weakened and certain road sections submerged.
The damages have generally slowed down traffic and pose a great threat to the roads—total destruction. Given the dates, the long rains in the coastal belt regions are coming to an end. Preparations for repair work must start now. These authorities must also study all areas that are disaster-prone, especially during the rain, so that human activities, including habitation, would be limited. These should be earmarked clearly so that all would be in the know as zones that should not be developed. It’s time to deliver.
