Residents along the Bulawayo-Victoria Falls highway are enduring severe dust pollution from detours created for a major government rehabilitation project. While the road upgrade is welcomed after years of deterioration, the temporary unpaved routes are generating constant dust clouds that infiltrate homes, harm health, and damage crops. Locals report persistent respiratory issues, ruined vegetation, and dirt-covered properties.
Provincial Minister Richard Moyo acknowledged the complaints, pledging to instruct contractors to increase water spraying on the detours to suppress the dust. A social commentator noted that the sandy soil in Matabeleland North is particularly prone to creating such hazardous conditions, which pose risks to both respiratory health and road safety. The Ministry of Transport reported that only 19.2 kilometers of the extensive highway have been upgraded so far.
Provincial Minister Richard Moyo acknowledged the complaints, pledging to instruct contractors to increase water spraying on the detours to suppress the dust. A social commentator noted that the sandy soil in Matabeleland North is particularly prone to creating such hazardous conditions, which pose risks to both respiratory health and road safety. The Ministry of Transport reported that only 19.2 kilometers of the extensive highway have been upgraded so far.
