Misewu Four Bridge delay forces risky river crossing
Ongoing delays in the construction of the Misewu Four bridge lead motorists to cross the river, risking safety and awaiting completion.
CHIKWAWA, MALAWI — Prompted by delays in the construction of the Misewu Four bridge, motorists in Shire Valley are resorting to crossing the Mikalango River directly, raising concerns over safety and potential damage to the makeshift road, writes Gerald Viola.
Despite the temporary diversion marked at Misewu Four and Billy Turn-Off, motorists have taken to crossing the blocked road and venturing into the river, using hoes and wheelbarrows to level and grade the riverbed for easier passage.
Razak Issa, a local businessman in Ngabu, initiated the construction of a better passage at Mikalango River in July 2023.
Issa organized a youth team led by Dan Souza, aiming to facilitate smooth travel across the river without relying on the potentially lengthy bridge construction project.
"Cyclone Freddy caused significant damage across the country, and we cannot wait for the maintenance of all the bridges at once," Issa told AfricBrief.
"We still need to cross to Nchalo and Ngabu, so I engaged the youth team to clear and level a passage for motorists."
Issa has taken full responsibility for the costs of the initiative and has ceased the practice of demanding payment from motorists.
However, concerns are arising regarding the sustainability of the makeshift road, with worries over potential damage during upcoming rains and increased traffic volume impacting its stability.
Gladys Ganda, the Member of Parliament for Nsanje Lalanje, expressed her satisfaction with the improved connection to the M1 road.
"I now take only three minutes to reach Billy Turn-Off compared to the previous twenty minutes when using the diversion," she stated.
While many motorists appreciate the expedited travel across the Mikalango River, some question the necessity of constructing the new road given the involvement of Mkaka Construction Company.
They wonder about the fate of the makeshift road once the bridge construction is complete.
Not all motorists share the same sentiments, as one anonymous driver highlighted the need for patience, asserting that the government is aware of the bridge situation and working towards resolving it.
However, concerns persist over the lack of updates and sluggish progress in completing the bridge.
Razak Issa remains apprehensive about the potential risks associated with the prolonged construction timeline.
He fears that if the bridge is not completed by February next year, there is a high likelihood that the makeshift road will be washed away during the upcoming rainy season.
Additionally, the increased traffic volume could undermine the structural integrity of the passage due to lingering moisture.
In addition to his community initiatives, Razak Issa operates a wholesale and retail shop at Ngabu Trading Centre, offering affordable prices to the locals.
The community around Ngabu favours purchasing from Razak Shop over other wholesalers.