Residents Choke on Dust as Harare’s Transport System Teeters on the Edge
Harare’s road network has officially hit crisis point, with residents and motorists declaring it a disaster, citing years of government neglect, poor maintenance, and uneven service delivery.
A new report by the Harare Residents’ Trust (HRT) reveals that pothole-infested streets, fading road markings, and choking dust are now daily realities—especially in high-density suburbs.
The watchdog warns that without urgent intervention, the city’s transport system could collapse, endangering lives and deepening inequality.
Residents in Harare’s high-density suburbs are living in harsh conditions due to the deteriorating road network.
The Harare Residents’ Trust notes that potholes are a constant feature on nearly every street.
“The majority of the roads in Harare’s high-density residential suburbs are in bad shape, with potholes available everywhere,” the report stated.
In areas like Mbare, Dzivarasekwa Extension, and Glen Norah, residents are forced to keep windows and doors shut to avoid dust stirred up by passing vehicles.
“Vehicles passing by leave a trail of dust filling their homes… Due to the dust emissions, residents now fear contracting diseases,” the report added.
The report also exposes glaring inequalities in how Harare’s roads are maintained.
In low-density suburbs, residents often use personal funds to repair streets, while high-density areas are left in disrepair.
Roads leading to the homes of political and business elites receive preferential treatment, deepening public frustration.
As reported by CITE, this imbalance reflects a broader failure in equitable service delivery.
Key commuter routes have become hotspots for congestion and accidents.
Willowvale Road is now considered dangerous due to peak-hour traffic jams, while Kirkman Drive—linking western suburbs to the city was described as a “perpetual problem” because of its narrow lanes and deep potholes.
The Dzivarasekwa Extension road to Glaudina has deteriorated so badly that commuter omnibuses now drop passengers early to avoid vehicle damage.
“With the rains coming, residents will face serious transport challenges,” the HRT warned.
The watchdog accused the Central Mechanical Equipment Department (CMED) of delivering substandard work on Borshoff Drive, resurfaced in 2022 using public funds.
“This is wasteful expenditure, yet no one has been held accountable,” the report stated.
In Harare’s central business district, the situation is equally dire.
Faded or missing road markings have worsened traffic flow and created confusion in parking zones, with unmarked bays contributing to congestion and frequent accidents.
In response, the HRT is calling for a complete overhaul of the city’s road management strategy.
The group urges authorities to invest in proper resurfacing, drainage systems, and transparent contracting.
“City roads must be maintained and properly marked to ensure safety and reduce congestion,” the report concluded.
