Malawi Expands Road Infrastructure to Tackle City Traffic Jams
In an exciting development for urban mobility, the Roads Authority (RA) of Malawi is ramping up efforts to design and construct more dual carriageways to enhance the capacity of roads across cities. This initiative comes as a direct response to growing traffic congestion, particularly in urban areas like Lilongwe, the capital city. RA Chief Executive Officer Emmanuel Champiti, in a recent interview with Africazine, highlighted the authority’s commitment to modernizing infrastructure that not only caters to today’s traffic demands but also stands the test of time.
Champiti emphasized the need for roads that can withstand the rigors of daily use for at least 15 years without significant wear and tear. “Once we are done with detailed designs, the country will see construction of modern, wider roads in all cities,” he stated. He pointed to recent successful upgrades, including the Masauko Chipembere Highway in Blantyre and similar improvements in Mzuzu. These projects marked a critical step towards addressing capacity issues and improving overall road safety.
Traffic flow in Lilongwe has seen significant strain due to a rising population and an increase in the number of vehicles. In response, Champiti noted that the authority has initiated simultaneous upgrades of three major roads to alleviate congestion and improve the commuting experience. The enhancements are expected to significantly reduce traffic jams and facilitate smoother transport of goods and services across the bustling city.
Moreover, the financial feasibility of these projects is under careful consideration. Secretary to the Treasury Betchani Tchereni spoke to Africazine about the funding landscape, revealing that the Roads Fund Administration is tasked with financing road projects. He confirmed that K88 billion has already been earmarked for upgrading a crucial segment of the M1 from Kanengo to Lumbadzi into a dual carriageway.
Wickly Mhango, president of the Malawi Building and Civil Engineering Contractors and Allied Trades Association, reiterated the urgent need for these dual carriageways, noting that alleviating traffic congestion has far-reaching impacts on daily life and the business environment.
While the road expansion initiative has encountered some budgetary adjustments—such as the revised costs for Kenyatta and Mzimba Streets—these increases reflect the evolving economic landscape, including currency devaluation and rising material costs. The government anticipates that the dual carriageways, which include the important link from Crossroads to Kanengo, will be completed by December 31 of this year, marking a significant milestone in Malawian infrastructure development.
This proactive approach not only addresses immediate traffic challenges but also lays the groundwork for a more efficient transportation network, fostering economic growth and improving the quality of life for residents. As Malawi continues to prioritize road infrastructure, the push for modern, durable roads signifies a brighter, more connected future.
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