The government has launched a high-capacity asphalt plant in Skyline, Harare, a move set to speed up road construction projects and cut down on the need for subcontractors.
The launch coincided with the reopening of a refurbished stretch of Harare Drive to traffic.
The automated plant, led by the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development, churns out dense-graded hot mix asphalt using locally sourced aggregates.
Officials say the facility should help reduce foreign currency outflows and simplify the supply chain by replacing imports with local materials.
Project Manager Elvis Chaperuka said that the plant can produce between 90 and 100 tonnes of asphalt per hour. Said Chaperuka:
“This asphalt plant has a production capacity of between 90 and 100 tonnes per hour for road patching and full-scale construction.
“The process begins with quarry stones, which are fed into the main tower where bitumen and aggregates are blended.
“This facility will significantly enhance the pace and quality of road works.”
Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development Felix Mhona said the initiative highlights the government’s commitment to modernising the country’s road infrastructure. Said Mhona:
“Government recognises the magnitude of our road network, which spans approximately 90 000 kilometres, larger than that of many countries.
“Our thrust is to produce our own asphalt rather than rely heavily on private suppliers.
“This shortens tender processes and allows us to respond swiftly to infrastructure demands.”
More: ZBC News
Pindula WhatsApp Channel
Facebook Page
Leave a Reply