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Message: [QUOTE="Nehanda, post: 26766, member: 2262"] Floods have prevented thousands of people living in Chikombedzi from reaching Chiredzi Town after water covered the Chilonga low-level bridge across the Runde River. Because of this, many residents face major problems traveling for medical help or business needs. The river splits Chiredzi District into two parts, separating the larger Chikombedzi area from the main district capital. Currently, the Chilonga crossing offers the shortest path between these locations. Another nearby route through Chipinda Pools Bridge inside Gonarezhou National Park remains unusable since Cyclone Eline damaged it back in 2000. People must travel much farther by going through Mupapa Bridge in Mwenezi or taking the Masvingo-Beitbridge Highway past Rutenga Growth Point, making journeys longer and more expensive. Officials worry desperate travelers might try crossing the flooded area using makeshift boats, risking their lives in a river known for crocodiles. Lovemore Chisema, the Chiredzi District Development Coordinator, confirmed these challenges. He said people cannot cross at Chilonga because water completely covers the structure. Chisema called for fast construction of an all-weather bridge to help communities from Chikombedzi and Majijimba reach Chiredzi Town safely. During rainy seasons, several people drowned attempting to cross the flooded bridge, causing local Civil Protection Committee members to block the connecting road. Plans for building a permanent bridge continue to move forward under President Mnangagwa's administration, which has made funding this project a priority. Chisema expressed hope about the new bridge construction, noting that government officials have set aside money for this long-needed improvement. The proposed Chilonga Lucerne project, expected to bring $60 million investment to Chiredzi South, includes plans for an all-weather bridge across the Runde River. This raises hopes for a modern crossing over one of Zimbabwe's largest year-round flowing rivers. [/QUOTE]

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