» RA, BCC in roads reconstruction

The Roads Authority (RA) is undertaking a reconstruction exercise of infrastructure affected by Tropical Cyclone Freddy in southern Malawi. Being implemented through the Regional Climate Resilience Program (RCRp-2), RA is rebuilding bridges, culverts, and road sections, according to the authority’s Chief Designs Engineer, Eng. Jarrison Chilongo. Chilongo, who is also the Deputy Coordinator of the RA Project Implementation Unit (PIU), added: “For lots 1 and 2, the sites are spread all across the southern region of Malawi, specifically in Mangochi, Machinga, Zomba, Phalombe, Chiradzulu, Mulanje, Thyolo, Blantyre, Chikwawa, Nsanje, Neno and Mwanza.” For Lot 3, he said, the authority is reconstructing bridges along the Mangochi–Makanjila (S129) Road. “For this lot in particular, civil works are expected to commence before the end of the year, while consultants prepare detailed engineering design and safeguards instruments for Lots 1 and 2. “The duration of the civil works execution varies per lot. The first two are planned to be executed within 24 months, while lot 3 is allocated 36 months. These are the actual civil works implementation times, which are, however, preceded by detailed engineering design and safeguards instruments development consultancies,” said Chilongo. 43 drainage structures of different scales will be reconstructed to the tune of US$65 million for all the stages; monitoring, design and supervision consultancy fees. This is part of the Program’s component of infrastructure investments and sustainable asset management for climate resilience, which is addressing both the immediate reconstruction needs in areas affected by the cyclone and the long-term catchment management and resilient infrastructure needs in Malawi, with particular focus on the Shire River Basin. As extreme weather events, from intense storms to prolonged droughts, continue to pose significant threats to transportation networks, the government is bolstering resilience. As such, RA is adopting a multifaceted approach to reconstruction by integrating climate-resilient design principles into every stage of planning and implementation. “This will encompass adopting robust engineering techniques, utilising durable materials, and strategically locating infrastructure to mitigate exposure to climate risks. Beyond physical upgrades, the RA will foster community engagement and build institutional capacity, which are integral components of resilience-building efforts. Meanwhile, Blantyre City Council (BCC) is a key implementing partner, and it will rehabilitate the Mthawira Parkway, which was affected by Tropical Cyclone Freddy. The Council’s Director of Engineering Services, Eng. Chimwemwe Mndelemani said they are now at the stage of procuring consultants for the project. “The road runs from Chileka Road Junction at Chirimba to Machinjiri Area 12, and it covers a total length of 8.4 kilometres. Some of the major activities are: bridge, culvert and pavement construction and drainage works. “The total cost of the rebuilding/reconstruction exercise is USD8.5 million, and the works will take 18 months to complete,” he stated.