Roads Authority begins rehabilitation works on flood damaged infrastructure in Nkhotakota

By Michael Martin//MALAWI

● Mutharika orders immediate inspection of all bridges nationwide

The Roads Authority has commenced rehabilitation works on key infrastructure damaged by heavy rains along the M5 Road and other affected areas in Nkhotakota District.

Among the structures impacted by the recent downpours is the Dwangwa Bridge, alongside several feeder roads that were rendered impassable following flooding.

In a statement, the Authority confirmed that repair works on the Mkaika Madzimatuwa Road at the Mwansambo junction have now been successfully completed.

The Authority has since reopened the road to the public, allowing motorists and pedestrians to resume normal use of the route.

Officials say the completed works at Mwansambo will help restore transport links and ease movement for communities that were temporarily cut off.

The Roads Authority further assured the public that rehabilitation efforts are ongoing to restore all infrastructure damaged by the heavy rains in the district.

Bridges earmarked for repair include Dwangwa, Kaombe, Muluzi, Chia, Chandilo, Ling’ona, and Kasitu, all of which are critical to regional connectivity.

The Authority emphasized that it is working around the clock to ensure the safety and durability of all restored infrastructure.

Early, President Peter Mutharika directed the Ministry of Transport and Public Works together with the Roads Authority, to immediately inspect all bridges on the country’s main roads.

The presidential directive aims to ensure that all major bridges are structurally sound and safe for public use, especially during the ongoing rainy season.

The instruction comes as government continues to provide updates on wash-aways and flooding affecting major routes, including the M001 and M005 roads.

Authorities report notable progress on the M001 Road, where the Nkamenya section is now fully passable to traffic.

At Mpasadzi, vehicles weighing up to five tonnes are currently able to travel through to either Mzuzu or Lilongwe.

Government has also identified an alternative route to accommodate heavier vehicles carrying loads of up to 30 tonnes.

Plans are underway to fully reinstate the Mpasadzi crossing within the next 24 hours, according to officials.

Secretary to the Government, Justin Saidi, said restoration works are being prioritized to minimize disruption to trade and travel.

However, the situation on the M005 Road remains uncertain due to persistently high water levels.

Authorities say a comprehensive assessment of the damage on the M005 will be conducted once water levels subside.

The government has urged road users to exercise caution and follow official guidance when traveling through affected areas.

Officials have reaffirmed their commitment to restoring all damaged infrastructure while ensuring public safety and long-term resilience against future extreme weather events.