Roseline Mutare
Residents of Rhodene in Masvingo City have expressed concern over a speed hump installed recently at fast food outlet, KFC along the Harare highway citing lack of visible signage and adequate lighting.
While the intention is good, residents are worried by the manner the speed humps were erected without consultation and due diligence considering that there is a lot of human traffic along the way and residential houses.
In an interview with The Midweek Watch, Patience Moyo said the speed humps are a disaster waiting to happen.
“We are worried that accidents will happen right before our eyes, the speed hump is a necessary measure to reduce speeding, but it is useless if drivers cannot see it, especially at night or even during the day, the signage is too, too small,” said Moyo.
Innocent Sithole who stays along McGhee Avenue also echoed the same sentiments like Moyo.
“I have seen several near-misses already, and it’s only a matter of time before a fatal accident is recorded at the junction, there is need for proper signage and lighting to prevent accidents,” he said.
“We are not against the speed humps, but we want it to be safe for everyone, we are calling on the authorities to take immediate action to address our concerns,” added Susan Machaya.
Ward 9 Councilor Bernard Muchokwa, confirmed that he has received numerous complaints from residents and has engaged the roads engineer. However, as the road is a national highway under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure Development, Muchokwa said as council they cannot do much.
In response to the concerns, Masvingo Provincial Roads Engineer Augustine Chigwereve, assured that measures are being taken to address the issue.
“We have arranged with the consultant to instruct the contractor to install necessary road signs and extend the jazzy barriers, we will also engage with the council to ensure that the speed hump is safe and visible to all drivers,” said Chigwereve.
