In the wake of recent disruptions along the Windhoek-Rehoboth corridor, the Ministry of Works and Transport, in collaboration with the Roads Authority, has embarked on constructing a permanent two-way bypass to restore seamless connectivity between the two localities.
This follows complaints received from Rehoboth residents.
Acknowledging the challenges faced by commuters, Minister of Works and Transport, Veikko Nekund, I expressed gratitude for the community's patience and assured citizens that efforts are underway to devise an amicable solution.
The initial 350-meter one-way bypass was implemented as an emergency measure to maintain traffic flow after the original bridge collapsed from recent heavy rains.
However, this temporary solution led to increased travel times, congestion and safety concerns.
In response, the RA is busy completing construction of a permanent two-way bypass.
Nekundi encouraged the public to remain patient and vigilant, adhere to speed limits and follow all erected road signs for their safety and the safety of others.
"What we have now constructed as a temporary one, we are now upgrading it to two lanes, and it will also be permanent. Even if the main bridge is reconstructed, that one will still remain intact. Further to address concerns regarding dams and road conditions on the temporary bypass, the Roads Authority has implemented regular road maintenance measures, including wetting the road surface to reduce dust and enhance driving conditions."
Nekundi also responded to questions from AR's Job Amupanda, who asked about the government's broader strategy for national road development, beyond current construction efforts.
"You don't even know what the direction is; one road is built, and then it is stopped again. What is the transport master plan of our whole country? If we could receive that, it would enable us to study it and enable us for the purpose of predictability so that we are with you."
In response, Minister Nekundi said, "The road master plan is basically a deliberation of all the constituencies that have committees that engage on roads that are seen fit for construction in their constituencies; it is then filtered into what we call at the regional level."