The Tanzania Roads Agency (TANROADS) in Kilimanjaro has stepped up maintenance of bridges, culverts and drainage systems ahead of forecast El Niño rains expected from October, a senior Works Ministry official said.
Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Works, Dr Charles Msonde, praised the agency for taking preventive measures during an inspection of road infrastructure in Mwanga and Same districts on Wednesday.
Dr Msonde said early intervention would help reduce the risk of damage to roads and bridges and minimise disruptions to transport during the rainy season.
He inspected ongoing maintenance works, including the removal of sand and debris from drainage channels and repairs to infrastructure damaged by previous rainfall.
He directed TANROADS to maintain regular inspections and promptly repair infrastructure identified as vulnerable, while urging contractors to accelerate work before the rains begin.
Among the sites inspected was Makanya Bridge, where repair work is underway to strengthen its lower section and protect the bridge approaches using stones and concrete.
The measures are intended to improve the bridge's resilience to heavy water flows during the rainy season.
TANROADS Kilimanjaro Regional Manager, Engineer Motta Kyando, said inspections had helped the agency identify vulnerable sections early and prioritise areas requiring urgent intervention.
He said the agency was clearing the culvert at Stendi ya Miwa, which had accumulated sand and debris, while strengthening Makanya Bridge.
TANROADS is also clearing the water inlet area near the bridge to improve water flow and reduce the risk of flooding and damage to the road infrastructure.
The government has been carrying out preventive maintenance on key transport infrastructure as Tanzania prepares for periods of heavy rainfall associated with the El Niño weather phenomenon.
The works are aimed at keeping roads passable and protecting infrastructure that supports the movement of people and goods, particularly in areas prone to flooding.