Published: 28 August 2017

The Infrastructure Development Bank of Zimbabwe is set to begin feasibility studies on the construction of the proposed Chilonga - Runde River Bridge and Boli Road project in Masvingo Province.

IDBZ said it has already allocated a budget for the project, part of which will be used for the feasibility study.

Construction of the bridge will lower transportation costs for small holder farmers in the province as it links Chiredzi town with Chilonga, Malipati and Chikombedzi and Sango Border post.

"The IDBZ has allocated a budget for the development of the proposed Chilonga-Runde Rver bridge…and intends to apply part of this budget allocation towards payments under the contract for engagement of consulting firms to undertake a feasibility, which includes technical, economic and environmental viability assessment," said IDBZ.

The route across Chilonga Bridge is the shortest gateway to Sango Border Post. But during rainy season, travelers use the longest route of 110km to Chiredzi and pay $10 a trip.

The same trip across the bridge is 32km and costs $2.

Formed in 2005, the IDBZ was formed in 2005 as a vehicle to spur economic development through provision of infrastructure which includes, housing, energy, water, sanitation and ICT infrastructure.

The bank has worked on several infrastructure projects across the country inclusive of energy. Recently, the bank handed over serviced residential stands in Klipsham in Masvingo.
- BH24

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