Collapse of Chilonga Bridge Severely Disrupts Chiredzi South Communities

CHIREDZI – The Chilonga Bridge in Chiredzi South Constituency, has collapsed due to severe flooding of the Runde River, cutting off thousands of villagers from Chiredzi town and leaving communities struggling to access essential services and markets.

According to Chiredzi District Development Coordinator, Mr. Lovemore Chisema, the collapse of the bridge has sparked urgent calls for the construction of an all-weather, high-rise bridge.

“The Runde River is impassable at Chilonga Bridge and we urgently need an all-weather, high-rise bridge to restore access for communities like Chikombedzi and Majijimba.”

The collapse has forced villagers to take expensive and time-consuming detours through Mwenezi and Mupapa, with some resorting to the use of unsafe makeshift boats to cross the river.

Authorities have since blocked the road connecting Chilonga and Chiredzi town to prevent accidents, as the bridge is now impassable.

As a result, residents are facing significant financial burdens. “The bus fare via Mwenezi is too expensive for villagers who need to travel frequently. We are forced to use boats, even though they’re not safe, said Thomas Mavidza, a local resident.

The agricultural sector has also been severely impacted.

Chiredzi District Agritex Officer, Mr. Tongai Bodi, explained that farmers in the region are struggling to deliver their produce to markets and depots. “The collapse of the bridge has disrupted our supply chain, making it difficult for farmers to transport their grain to the Nandi GMB depot”.

With Chipinda Pools Bridge in Gonarezhou National Park having been washed away over two decades ago, residents of Chiredzi South are more isolated than ever.

The collapse of the Chilonga Bridge has severely disrupted the lives of thousands of villagers in Chiredzi South.

The government must take immediate action to address this critical issue and prevent future tragedies.