Zambia and Zimbabwe have agreed to restrict use of the Victoria Falls Bridge by heavy trucks and trains, with the two nations planning to construct a new overpass to cater for the traffic, Zambia President Hakainde Hichilema has announced.
The 120-year-old bridge – a key logistics artery linking Zimbabwe and Zambia – is crucial in facilitating regional trade and serves as a vital road and rail link promoting economic integration under the African Continental Free Trade Area and connecting Southern Africa to markets like the DRC.
Concerns over use of the bridge by heavy-duty traffic have been long-standing, with tourism operators accusing the haulage trucks of congesting the passage and causing massive pollution, negatively impacting on hospitality business.
Hichilema, speaking at the Engineering Institution of Zambia conference in Livingstone, said the historic structure is no longer suitable for heavy traffic.
He said the two countries plan to construct a new bridge and railway crossing to accommodate heavy trucks and trains.
Hichilema also reiterated his government targets to grow Zambia’s economy to 80 billion United States dollars.
He said the economy has nearly doubled over the past four and a half years, adding that efforts are underway to ensure all provinces contribute significantly to the country’s gross domestic product.
Hichilema further proposed linking the Luapula River to the Kafue River to increase power generation.
Meanwhile, Infrastructure and Urban Development minister Chares Milupi said the country is moving from reactive to forward-looking infrastructure planning that anticipates demand driven by climate change, urbanisation and technological advancement.
Southern Province minister Credo Nanjuwa said engineering remains central to Zambia’s national development. – ZNBC/TML