Communities across Bulawayo are raising concerns over deteriorating roads and a lack of street lighting, with some residents now seeking permission to repair infrastructure themselves as conditions worsen.
The Bulawayo City Council (BCC) says it is open to working with residents who want to assist in repairing damaged roads and improving related infrastructure.
In an interview, BCC director of works Engineer Methusi Dibidi said the local authority welcomes community contributions towards road rehabilitation.
“The City welcomes contributions towards road repair works, which include street lighting, traffic signs, road marking, and maintenance equipment or materials for road infrastructure, as well as the execution of works relating to all stated elements of road design,” he said.
Engineer Dibidi urged residents interested in assisting to formally engage the council to ensure proper coordination and compliance with regulations.
“For those who are interested in assisting, please contact the Works Department of the City of Bulawayo. You can find us at the Tower Block Building, Fourth Floor, at the corner of R.G. Mugabe Way and L. Takawira Avenue. Alternatively, you may call Ms Z Nyoni at +263 29 2275011, extension 6002, or email worksdept@citybyo.co.zw,” he said.
He added that the council would provide technical guidance and supervision to ensure safety and quality standards are met.
“The City will provide the necessary specifications and supervision, and can also recommend reputable companies that supply the required materials for road works and street furniture. This ensures that all works undertaken meet the required standards and regulations,” he said.
Engineer Dibidi also expressed appreciation for community involvement.
“Your support is greatly appreciated, and we look forward to working together to improve the road infrastructure,” he said.
Residents say poor road conditions and the absence of street lighting have persisted for years without adequate maintenance, making travel difficult and unsafe, particularly at night.
In Sunninghill suburb, residents have identified several roads requiring urgent attention, including Graham Road towards Pine Road up to Lochview Primary School, as well as Walker Road leading to Leighton Road. Residents say these routes are critical for daily movement but have severely deteriorated.
Siphosenkosi Moyo, a resident, said the situation had become increasingly difficult for families.
“When it rains, the roads are filled with water and mud, which creates more potholes,” he said. “Previously, the council gave us soil to cover the potholes, but as soon as it rains, the situation becomes worse.”
He added that the absence of street lighting posed safety risks.
“There are no street lights in the area, and this makes it very dangerous at night. We as residents want to fix the roads ourselves. We are asking the city council to clearly tell us what we need to do, what permission is required, and how we can work together without breaking any rules,” he said.
Another resident, Munyaradzi Mpofu, said the poor state of the roads was affecting everyday life and damaging vehicles.
“People struggle to drive through these roads every day. Some vehicles are getting damaged, and emergency services may even struggle to reach us when there is a problem,” he said.
Nhlanhla Dube said the lack of lighting had left parts of the suburb in darkness.
“At night, it is completely dark in some places. It is unsafe for children and even adults walking at night. That is why we feel we cannot continue waiting forever while the situation gets worse,” he said.
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