THE Transport and Infrastructural Development ministry has deployed a road brigade to undertake bush clearing along the Bulawayo-Gwanda Highway, in a move aimed at improving road safety and visibility for motorists.
The initiative, which is underway in Mawabeni, Umzingwane district, saw teams of workers clad in high-visibility gear clearing overgrown vegetation along the roadside.
The exercise is part of a broader nationwide programme to maintain key transport corridors and reduce hazards caused by encroaching bush.
Overgrown vegetation along highways has long been cited as a contributory factor to road accidents, as it can obstruct drivers, conceal pedestrians or animals and limit space for emergency manoeuvres.
By clearing the roadside, authorities said they hoped to create safe driving conditions, particularly on busy intercity routes such as the Bulawayo-Gwanda Road.
“The deployment of the road brigade reflects government’s commitment to infrastructure maintenance,” a ministry official said.
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“The programme is also expected to create temporary employment opportunities for local communities involved in the clearing operations.”
Motorists travelling through Mawabeni have welcomed the development.
“The programme has improved visibility along sections that were previously heavily overgrown and posing a threat to road users,” said motorist Gilbert Nyoni.
The ministry urged drivers to exercise caution in areas where crews are working and to adhere to road safety guidelines.