It has emerged that those road works in Lusaka by AFCONS which have certain parts not being completed resulting in delays in road completion are actually being caused by either Lusaka Water and Sewerage company – LWSC and Zesco not timely executing their parts.
AFCONS, an Indian company contracted to construct filter-road and fly over bridges in Lusaka under the Lusaka de-congestions project has bemoaned delays from LWSC as well as power utility Zesco in relocating their lines despite being paid, slowing down works on the remaining roads.
AFCONS Planning and Coordination Manager Sachin Zende told to the Zambian Business Times – ZBT in an exclusive interview that lack of timely relocation of water and power lines is the main challenge being faced at the sites and that the company has continued to engage government on the prevailing challenges hence awaiting response.
He said most of the roads have already been handed over the ministry of local government and AFCONS is currently working on the remaining three major roads which include Great East, Independency avenue and Haile Selassie roads.
“Water and power lines remain as a hindrances to the progression of works, however we are hopeful that these issues will soon be dealt with especially that we are working on busy roads like Great East. Initially, the remaining three roads were set for commissioning in December this year but this may become a challenge if not timely addressed. Overall works for the whole project stand at 70%,” He said
Zende further confirmed that the US$13 million Makeni flyover bridge is 100% complete and will be handled over to government for commissioning next week while works on the remaining bridges are underway and that this month is planned to begin works at Long-acres bridge.
Minister of Local Government and Housing Charles Banda had in March 2020 set April 14, 2020 as commissioning date for the Makeni flyover bridge but this was interrupted due to the Covid – 19 pandemic.
Zende said despite the company suspending its works from 1st April to 28th April 2020 amidst Covid – 19, works have fully resumed with an increase of labor work force to help speed up the process and meet the commissioning date.
He has since expressed optimism that the company will soon complete the remaining bridges and roads in the city as works are going on smoothly, and the team is on track and hoping to complete within the stipulated timelines. Meanwhile, both ZESCO and Lusaka Water have been contacted and we will inform you of their responses as soon as responses are availed.
