By Alfred Banda
Minister of Transport and Public Works Feston Kaupa says government has intensified emergency works on major roads damaged by heavy rains and flooding experienced over the past week.
Kaupa said this on Saturday during a press conference at the Central Office of Information (COI) in Lilongwe, where he provided an update on the status of the M1, M5 and M18 roads.
“These roads are of critical importance to the country’s economy and livelihoods, and the damage has significantly affected connectivity,” said Kaupa.
He said the Ministry of Transport and Public Works, working with the Roads Authority, moved in quickly to restore access. “We immediately put in place temporary access platforms, alternative routes and preparations for semi-permanent solutions,” he said.
On the M1, Kaupa said temporary access has been restored at Mpasadzi and Nkhamenya bridges in Kasungu District, allowing traffic to resume, adding that repairs were carried out after rising water levels affected the Mpasadzi diversion.
Roads Authority Chief Executive Officer, Ammiel Champiti said the authority has introduced daily maintenance works on the temporary structures to ensure continued access.
“Our teams are on the ground every day strengthening diversions and improving alternative routes,” said Champiti.
Kaupa said emergency works on the M5 have restored passage in several sections, with small vehicles already crossing between Salima and Nkhotakota, and all classes of vehicles expected to cross the affected areas by early next week.
He said the M18 has suffered damage at three locations and that resources have been mobilised to commence repair works once access is fully established.
The minister assured the public that government is also working on permanent and climate-resilient solutions, and appealed for patience as emergency works continue.
Government officials, engineers and Roads Authority representatives are present to explain the challenges and outline immediate mitigation measures being implemented in recognition of the strategic importance of the affected routes to regional connectivity and livelihoods.
