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| The directives signal a turning point for Tunduma, where traffic gridlock has long been a headache for businesses and residents alike. Photo: Courtesy |
By Charles Mkoka
The Minister of Works, Innocent Bashungwa, has taken decisive action to end the crippling truck congestion at the Tunduma border, a crucial link between Tanzania and Zambia.
Acknowledging the frustrations of transporters and residents, Bashungwa announced immediate interventions, including the deployment of three mobile weighbridges to accelerate vehicle weighing and ease the massive backlog at the Mpemba weighbridge.
During his visit to Tunduma District in Songwe Region today, November 18, 2024, Bashungwa emphasized the government’s commitment to resolving the long-standing issue.
“The long queues caused by challenges at Mpemba weighbridge are unacceptable. I have directed Tanroads to station three mobile weighbridges here immediately. The first must be operational by Wednesday, November 20, 2024,” Bashungwa declared.
The minister further revealed that the government is securing funds to build a new weighbridge in Iboya to better serve transporters entering Tanzania from Zambia. This facility aims to ensure smooth traffic flow for vehicles heading to Mbeya and beyond.
In a move to further ease congestion, Bashungwa instructed Tanroads to complete a parking station in Chimbuya within one month. The facility, set to open in early December, will clear trucks parked along roadsides, which have long disrupted traffic in the area.
Additionally, Bashungwa directed a one-month survey for constructing bypass roads in the mountainous areas of Mbalizi, Nyoka, and Igawa along the Mbeya-Tunduma highway. These stretches, where vehicles currently take turns to pass, have caused significant delays for transporters and other road users.
Songwe Regional Commissioner Daniel Chongolo added that 1,800 hectares of land have been secured for the development of a dry port in Tunduma to provide a long-term solution to truck congestion. The process of compensating affected residents is underway, paving the way for construction to begin soon.
Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Tunduma MP David Silinde hailed the measures, noting that approximately 3,000 trucks cross the border daily, accounting for 72% of the cargo handled at Dar es Salaam Port.
“This is a critical issue not just for Tunduma but for the entire country. The minister’s swift response is commendable and offers real hope for change,” Silinde said.
Vwawa MP Japhet Hasunga echoed Silinde’s sentiments, pointing out the economic strain caused by delays. “Truck congestion is driving up costs for transporters and businesses. The government’s focus on this issue is critical for maintaining Tanzania’s role as a regional trade hub,” Hasunga said.
Minister Bashungwa’s directives signal a turning point for Tunduma, where traffic gridlock has long been a headache for businesses and residents alike. The swift actions by the Ministry of Works and Tanroads are a clear sign of the government’s resolve to improve infrastructure, boost trade efficiency, and ease the burden on transporters.
With immediate solutions underway and long-term strategies in motion, Tunduma is set to reclaim its status as a key gateway for regional commerce.
