Government Restores Key Roads as Minister Mhango Inspects Nkhotakota Road Projects

Minister of Transport and Public Works, Hon. Jappie Mhango, M.P., on Monday inspected ongoing emergency repair works on the M5 and M18 roads in Nkhotakota District, underscoring Government’s commitment to restoring key transport links damaged by recent heavy flooding.

During the visit, the Minister assessed progress at Luludzi Bridge and Dwangwa Bridge, both of which have since been reopened to traffic.

Mhango said the floods caused extensive damage to major road infrastructure, cutting off access between parts of the Central Region and the Northern Region. He explained that Government implemented temporary measures to reopen the M5 Road to traffic, enabling the movement of people, goods, and services while permanent repair works continue.

On the M18 Road, Mhango said contractors are working to establish a temporary diversion to reconnect Nkhotakota with Ntchisi and Kasungu districts. He added that although the damage is severe and cannot be fully repaired immediately, the diversion is expected to be operational within four to five days to allow vehicles to pass.

Commenting on the pace of the repair works, Mhango said progress has been satisfactory given the prevailing circumstances. He noted that high water levels initially made it impossible for contractors to access the damaged sections, but as water levels receded, contractors were able to mobilize effectively, resulting in significant progress within a short period.

Addressing concerns over road quality, Mhango said most of the affected infrastructure was constructed many years ago and has exceeded its intended design lifespan. He added that limited routine maintenance over time, coupled with increased traffic volumes, has contributed to the deterioration. He stressed that Government is now prioritizing the rehabilitation and upgrading of the roads within the available resources.