The government has begun repairing the deteriorating Singida-Manyara road, responding to prolonged complaints from motorists and residents over a route critical to the movement of people and goods between the two regions.
Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Works, Dr Charles Msonde, said on Tuesday that repairs were already under way on 21 kilometres of the road, with six kilometres being worked on in Singida and 15 kilometres in Manyara.
He said the government would continue repairing other damaged sections as funds became available.
The move comes as the country approaches the rainy season, when poor road conditions can worsen and increase transport difficulties for passengers, traders and other road users.
“The importance of this road is significant in promoting the economic activities of people in Singida and Manyara,” Dr Msonde said during a working visit to the two regions.
He said the government had taken deliberate steps to address the condition of the road after receiving complaints over its deteriorating state.
Dr Msonde commended managers of the Tanzania National Roads Agency (Tanroads) in Singida and Manyara for beginning the repairs, saying the works should help restore the road and improve transport services.
In Hanang District, Manyara Region, he told residents that repairs would continue until all targeted sections had been addressed.
He also urged communities to cooperate with authorities and contractors working on the road.
Hanang District Commissioner Almishi Hazali, however, called for faster repairs, particularly on sections that have already been opened up for rehabilitation, before heavy rains begin.
“The repairs need to be accelerated before the rainy season, especially in areas where the road has already been opened,” she said.
Ms Hazali said the district authorities were also educating residents on the need to keep drainage channels and bridges free of rubbish.
She said blocked drainage systems could prevent rainwater from flowing properly, increasing the risk of flooding and further damage to the road.
The Singida-Manyara road is an important transport link for communities and businesses in the two regions, making the pace and quality of the ongoing repairs significant for road users who depend on it for daily travel and movement of goods.