The damage caused by Cyclone Ana in 2021 compromised the structure of the bridge over the River Rovúbuè, requiring the construction of a new bridge on the site to ensure the safety and smooth flow of traffic in the area.
A study carried out by engineers in the area concluded that the base of the pillars of the bridge over the River Rovúbuè was damaged by Cyclone Ana, making the infrastructure unable to support both light and heavy vehicle traffic. The bridge is of great economic importance, directly linking the city of Tete to the productive districts and neighboring countries.
To resolve the situation, the Mozambican government is seeking US$ 30 million to build a new bridge in Tete province. The information was released by the director-general of the National Roads Administration – ANE, Elias Paulo, as part of the efforts to resume the road connection with the hinterland countries and the productive districts of Tete via the Rovúbuè River crossing.
Paulo also pointed out that the government is awaiting approval from some partners to start building or rehabilitating the bridge. The new structure would not only relieve pressure on the Samora Machel Bridge, which is overloaded, but would also contribute to the movement of cargo in the region, especially considering the transportation of heavy cargo from Zambia and DR Congo to the Port of Beira.
Currently, only pedestrians, motorcycles and tricycles can use the bridge over the Rovúbuè River, while heavy vehicle traffic has resumed on the Samora Machel Bridge, also in Tete, after a week-long ban. The stoppage caused daily losses of US$200 for truck drivers, due to the rental of containers.
