The Tanzania National Roads Agency TANROADS in Kigoma Region under the Ministry of Works has called on citizens living near road and bridge infrastructure to take an active role in protecting and maintaining these public investments to ensure long-term durability and safety for all users.
The appeal was made by the TANROADS Kigoma Regional Manager, Engineer Elsony Mweladzi, who said the region has a total of 396 bridges, including five major bridges that are all in good condition and safe for public use.
He emphasized that these infrastructures represent a significant government investment that must be safeguarded against damage and misuse.
He noted that incidents of vandalism, misuse of road furniture, and careless activities along road corridors increase maintenance costs and reduce the lifespan of infrastructure.
He particularly urged communities living around key areas such as Malagarasi, where the Kikwete Bridge is located, to protect installed facilities including road lighting systems and avoid any acts that could damage them.
Engineer Mweladzi further highlighted that TANROADS is planning to strengthen security along bridges and other critical infrastructure by installing surveillance cameras.
The move is aimed at preventing destruction of public assets and improving monitoring of road usage activities.
He also called on drivers and transport operators to observe proper road usage practices. These include avoiding vehicle repairs on roadways, preventing oil spills on tarmac surfaces, and ensuring that trucks carrying goods such as sand and other loose materials are properly covered to avoid spillage on roads.
He expressed appreciation to the President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, for continued financial support toward the improvement of road and bridge infrastructure in Kigoma Region.
He noted that the investments have significantly contributed to economic and social development by improving connectivity through high-standard roads and street lighting systems.
