THE Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development (MTID) has announced the closure of Simon Mazorodze Road from Harare Drive to Willowvale Road/St George Street.
The closure, effective 27 March until further notice, is part of a project contracted to Tensor Systems aimed at upgrading and rehabilitating the road.
In a public notice the MTID announced the temporary traffic changes to ensure a smooth flow of transport and pedestrians.
“All pedestrians and the motoring public who use the affected road are advised as follows: construction of the carriageway) – detours northbound (city-bound citybound (or northbound) traffic may use watts road (the service road adjacent to Simon Mazorodze) by exiting Simon Mazorodze at the Chinzou roundabout and joining the service lane.
“Traffic may shift back into Simon Mazorodze after the construction zone. Alternatively, city-bound traffic may turn left onto Harare Drive, then right onto Willowvale road, or continue to highfield road. Southbound (Masvingo bound) traffic may continue using the southbound carriageway. During this period, Watts shall operate as a one-way street,” reads the notice.
Traffic will continue on the southbound carriageway initially, but later shift to the northbound lane as construction progresses.
“Construction of the southbound (Masvingo bound Tensor Systems carriageway) – detours northbound (city bound) traffic shall continue to use Watts road, which shall continue to operate as a one-way street as described above. southbound (Masvingo-bound) traffic will be moved the then completed northbound carriageway.
“Alternatively, southbound traffic may turn left into Daniel Street then immediately right into Mbirimi Drive, left into St George’s street, right into Waterfalls avenue then back into Simon Mazorodze road,” further reads the notice.
Motorists are advised to follow all traffic signs, allow extra travel time, and give way to construction vehicles. Further updates on detours will be provided as necessary.
“Other diversion routes will be advised as they are prepared. Additional diversions shall be added to allow bridge construction. Road users are free to use any other roads of their choice but the ministry will only be responsible for the designated routes.
“Road users are advised to follow the traffic signs strictly and at all times cooperate with traffic controllers posted around the construction zone.
“Allow for extra time to reach intended destinations. Give right of way to all construction machinery, including all vehicles branded tensor systems, to ensure safety to all road users,” the ministry said.