Mtshabezi Bridge along Blanket Mine Road has been badly flooded, with rising water levels making it impossible for vehicles to pass and cutting off access between Gwanda town, Blanket Mine, and the Maphisa area.
Strong currents have swept away a low-lying makeshift bridge, as well as another temporary crossing near the prison camp at Hamden Plots, while authorities continue to assess the full extent of the damage.
Nearby prison gardens have been washed away, and several properties along the river have also been affected. Civil Protection teams are on the ground evaluating the situation.
Gwanda District disaster risk reduction focal person, Awakhiwe Moyo, has warned motorists, pedestrians, and residents not to attempt crossing the flooded bridge. He said:
“Mtshabezi Bridge along Blanket Mine Road is severely flooded, with water levels higher than ever seen. The makeshift road has been destroyed.
“We strongly warn motorists, pedestrians and all residents not to attempt to cross or approach the bridge. Let us wait for authorities to assess and respond to the situation.”
In a related development, the Zimbabwe National Water Authority (ZINWA) has issued a warning to communities in and around Gwanda, urging them to remain vigilant as major dams in the Mzingwane Catchment are spilling. ZINWA said:
“We wish to advise stakeholders and communities in and around Gwanda that, following the incessant rains being experienced in the Mzingwane Catchment, major dams have filled up and are spilling.
“Mtshabezi Dam has filled up and is spilling, while the Tuli and Shashe rivers are also experiencing high flows and overtopping their banks, raising the risk of flooding for downstream communities.
“Insiza Dam is almost full and is expected to start spilling in the next few hours if the current rate of inflows is sustained.
“Downstream communities are therefore advised to be vigilant, not to attempt to cross flooded rivers, and to be on high alert for possible flooding.
“All water abstraction equipment along river channels should be removed or adequately secured.
“ZINWA is closely monitoring the situation and will keep stakeholders and communities updated on any new developments as they occur.”
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