Shakafuswa calls for equitable distribution of road projects
Written by Millennium on August 10, 2019
NOEL IYOMBWA writes
THERE is need for equitable distribution of road projects across all the constituencies and wards in Lusaka, says Deputy Mayor Christopher Shakafuswa
Mr Shakafuswa observed that road rehabilitation and construction under L400 in Lusaka y has been concentrated in few areas.
He was speaking on Thursday during a meeting of LCC and Road Development Agency (RDA) officials in the Council Chambers.
Mr Shakafuswa expressed concern that developing one constituency at the expense of others may not change the face of Lusaka.
“One constituency in Lusaka has benefited more roads under L-400 than others. People are now concerned that maybe it is because most government officials reside or own property in that constituency,” he said.
The deputy Mayor said that the scenario was also putting pressure on leaders in other constituencies and wards as people tended to think they were not doing much to develop their areas.
He has since requested for regular consultations between RDA and LCC to harmonize the situation.
Mr Shakafuswa also reminded RDA to implement the component of procuring road maintenance equipment for LCC which was embedded in the L400 phase one contract.
In response, RDA director of road maintenance, William Mulusa advised that LCC formally wrote his organisation so that considerations could be made in the 2020 budget.
Mr Mulusa also suggested that the procurement of equipment be done in three phases due to financial challenges.
And Lusaka Town Clerk Alex Mwansa requested RDA to consider face-lifting some public places such the BOMA and the Main Post Office by working on car parks.
Meanwhile, RDA has called for concerted effort against encroachment of road reserves.
Mr Mulusa said the agency was spending colossal sums of money to compensate owners of structures constructed in road reserves with the permission local authorities countywide.
The meeting was convened to exchange notes on road projects under L400 phase 3 and other matters of similar interest.
It was also agreed that such meetings be held regularly for the two sister institutions to be moving at the same speed and avoid contradicting each other.
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