Magufuli launches Mfugale flyover, issues strong caution on accidents
What you need to know:
Tanzania has today witnessed the launching of its first flyover which is 425 metres long. The flyover worth Sh106 billion constructed at the junction of Mandela and Nyerere roads at the Tazara Area is expected to address traffic congestion and aid the country’s economic transformation.
Dar es Salaam. Transport and business temporarily came to a standstill at the junction of Nyerere and Mandela roads in Tazara area on Thursday, September 27, when President John Magufuli officially launched the Eng Patrick Mfugale flyover.
Thousands of Dar es Salaam residents attended the inauguration of the flyover that was constructed by Japanese company Sumitomo Mitsui Construction in the last 29 months.
Addressing the public shortly before launching the flyover, President Magufuli warned authorities, drivers and the general public to ensure accidents are prevented at the 425-metre long flyover.
“The Tanzania National Roads Agency (Tanrads) should consider putting security cameras at the bridge in order to identify those violating road safety laws, especially the hit and run drivers,” said President Magufuli.
He added: “You may seek assistance from the contractors for cameras, the Sumitomo Mitsui Construction Company Limited, being part of their complementary package or use your sources to ensure even the future flyovers are fixed with security cameras.”
He commended the government of Japan for funding the Sh106 billion worth project, noting that Japan should consider implementation of the long-awaited flyover at Gerezani area and the 4.1 kilometres of road stretching between Mwenge and Morocco.
The head of state wished good luck to the outgoing Japanese ambassador to Tanzania, Mr Masaharu Yoshida, whose term of service in the country has come to an end.
“Since we have come to learn that your term in office expires at the end of this month, we hope you will become Tanzania’s ambassador in Japan so that we can attract more investors for the country,” he said.
Earlier, Mr Yoshida told the public that he had issued his last speech as his contract was ending this month.
“I’m happy to see the project whose construction contract I signed completed. It is my hope that the flyover will reduce traffic congestion and contribute to the country’s economic development and people’s wellbeing,” he said.
