The government is completing the construction of key bridges along the Dar es Salaam–Lindi highway, with progress now reaching 75 percent.
The works are part of the Contingency Emergency Response Component (CERC) funded by the World Bank at a cost of over TZS 114 billion.
Tanroads Chief Executive Officer, Eng. Mohamed Besta, said the bridges at Somanga Mtama, Kipwata and Mkereng’ende are under construction and will help improve connectivity between Dar es Salaam, Lindi and the wider Eastern Coastal Zone.
“I have inspected the projects and seen good progress. I thank President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan for ensuring that funds were made available. These bridges will solve problems caused by rains and storms which made the road impassable in the past,” Eng. Besta said.
He explained that in the last two years, heavy rains destroyed several bridges and culverts along the road, creating major challenges for transporters and local communities.
He said culvert works are also near completion, with 11 out of 18 already finished. He directed the Tanroads Lindi Regional Manager to strengthen supervision so that the works are completed on time.
Tanroads Lindi Regional Manager, Eng. Emil Zengo, said the agency is committed to delivering the projects on schedule and in line with contract requirements.
“I assure Tanzanians that the bridges will be completed within the agreed time. We appreciate the close support we are getting from the Chief Executive,” Eng. Zengo said.
The Dar es Salaam–Lindi highway is one of the most important routes for the southern regions. It supports the movement of goods, agricultural products and services to Dar es Salaam.
Completion of the bridges will reduce transport delays, improve road safety and lower costs for farmers and businesses.
The project is expected to drive economic growth in Lindi and other southern regions by improving access to markets, ports and investment opportunities along the Eastern Coast.