A seven-kilometre section of the Tanzania-Zambia highway at Kitonga, Iringa Region, will be expanded to a double lane road on either side.

Works minister Abdallah Ulega said at an inspection tour that the road section is earmarked for expansion in an effort to reduce traffic congestion and improve road safety, expanding the Kitonga hill stretch of the highway along with installing full street lighting.

Yudas Msangi, the Tanroads regional manager for Iringa, said that adding another lane on either side is estimated to cost 59.2bn/- while rehabilitating road as it is would cost 16.2bn/-, rectifying the steep road section and enhance safety for all road users.

The minster described the road as strategically important, used by trucks transporting goods to and from neighboring countries that depend on the port of Dar es Salaam for cargo shipments.

This road will now have two lanes on either side, easing overtaking which is dangerously attempted by drivers time and again, “We will also install street lights throughout to ensure the road remains safe and accessible at all times,” he stated.

Traffic volumes along the TANZAM highway had increased significantly, from approximately 1,700 vehicles per day to 3,400 vehicles per day in the past year, resulting in congestion and pressure on the existing infrastructure, he said.

The Tanroads regional office presented recommendations on expanding the section, whereupon a seven kilometres section was identified for expansion, he stated, reminding the agency of a directive by President Samia Suluhu Hassan that all road projects must incorporate street lighting to enhance safety for residents, traders and drivers.

 Guardrails will also be installed along the road to prevent vehicles from veering off into steep valleys along the mountainous terrain, he said, stressing that procurement processes begin immediately to ensure this road is rapidly expanded.

Kilolo MP Ritta Kabati said the road is vital for national and international trade so its improvement will boost the economy of Iringa Region and the country as a whole.

It will also improve access to essential social services including medical care in Iringa municipality, she added.