The Tanzania National Roads Agency (TANROADS) has identified 49 vulnerable points across Morogoro Region for close monitoring as it steps up preparations for possible disruption to road transport during the El Niño rains.
The agency has assessed the region’s 2,071-kilometre road network and 1,032 bridges to identify sections that could be affected by heavy rainfall and flooding.
TANROADS Morogoro Regional Manager, Engineer Baraka Mwambage, said the assessment would allow the agency to concentrate its preventive measures and response efforts on areas requiring special attention.
“After the Government issued the El Niño warning, we assessed our entire network and identified areas that require special attention. This helps us direct our monitoring and preparations in good time,” Eng Mwambage said.
The agency is monitoring roads, bridges and culverts, with the aim of detecting potential damage early and taking corrective measures before problems escalate.
The preparations are particularly important for communities that depend on roads to access markets, schools, health facilities and other essential services, as heavy rains can damage road infrastructure and disrupt movement.
Mr Mwambage urged residents to report damaged roads, blocked culverts or other infrastructure problems as soon as they are identified so that TANROADS can respond promptly.
He said the agency would maintain close surveillance throughout the rainy season and take precautionary measures where necessary.
The move comes as authorities prepare for the potential effects of El Niño-related rainfall, which can increase the risk of flooding and damage to transport infrastructure.