Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) Truck Drivers Association President Eugene Ndhlovu has called on the Road Development Agency (RDA) to resolve the traffic congestion between 10 miles and 6 miles, citing that it is slowing down regional trade.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with the Zambian Business Times (ZBT) Ndhlovu stated that RDA should engage the Contractor tasked with the Ndola dual Carriage way to initiate works in critical areas to avert the choking of the road.
“Something needs to be done urgently, what is obtaining on the ground on that stretch is slowing regional trade, Zambia facilitates regional trade and we cannot have a point that slows traffic to such an extent where you begin to cause long queues as far as 5 kilometers or even more, our appeal is let RDA with other key stakeholders engage the Contractor, let them start from critical points they make sure they do a thorough job to enhance smooth flow of traffic,” he said.
Ndhlovu stated that the timing of the construction is poorly displayed and there is a need for critical analysis of the situation.
“They should definitely up their game they are paid to make sure that the roads are made safe for all of us, where there is no other obstruction in terms of slowing economic progression, we are failing as a nation this situation is tarnishing the image of the Country that is supposed to take advantage of its geographical location, RDA and other stakeholders let them do a good job by putting their heads together to resolve the obstruction,” he said.
Meanwhile, Flash Buses proprietor Ishmael Nkakara also expressed his displeasure with the situation stating that there is a need for a roundabout for Mungule and Zangazanga to resolve the traffic challenges. He stated that the growth of the city has led to an adverse lack of spacing in terms of roads therefore RDA must establish three lanes.
“On the other hand that issue is not just because there are dual Carriageway works, we need a roundabout at the Mungule area, RDA and the Government are doing a wonderful job but they should engage stakeholders like ourselves so that we give our input on some of the Solutions to enhancing our road network, let’s hope they do that,” he said.
