Deputy Minister for Works Godfrey Kasekenya has directed Tanzania National Roads Agency (TANROADS) managers across the country to prepare for the expected El Niño rains by ensuring standby contractors and emergency equipment are available to respond quickly to damage to roads and bridges.
He issued the directive in Makanya, Same District, Kilimanjaro Region, during an inspection of vulnerable sections of roads in Moshi, Mwanga and Same districts to assess preparations for the rainy season.
“Congratulations to the Kilimanjaro regional manager for the good work in identifying and improving vulnerable road sections. Ensure you have equipment and standby contractors who can be deployed quickly during emergencies,” Eng Kasekenya said.
He said the government had allocated funds to strengthen vulnerable sections of roads and bridges across the country, urging TANROADS managers to ensure the money was properly used and the planned improvements met the required standards.
Eng Kasekenya said timely interventions were essential to minimise disruptions to transport and protect road infrastructure during heavy rains.
He also urged residents to take precautions during the rainy season and avoid dumping waste into drainage systems, warning that blocked drains could divert water and cause damage to roads and bridges.
Same District Commissioner Kasilda Mgeni commended TANROADS in Kilimanjaro for improving vulnerable roads and bridges, pledging to intensify public awareness campaigns ahead of the rains.
Acting TANROADS Kilimanjaro Regional Manager Benitho Mdzovela said the agency was working to ensure that improvements to vulnerable road sections were completed on time and met the required quality standards.
Eng Kasekenya is in Kilimanjaro Region to assess TANROADS’ preparedness for the expected El Niño rains. During the visit, he also inspected emergency equipment intended for use if roads and bridges are damaged by heavy rainfall.