Zimbabwe is clearly not slowing down after the successful launch of its first multi-level traffic interchange in Harare. Just weeks after the commissioning of the US$88 million Trabablas Interchange, the ripple effect is being felt all the way in the eastern city of Mutare, where work has now begun on two more interchanges as part of the Christmas Pass Bypass Road project.
Valued at US$99 million, the 31.2km bypass aims to solve a long-standing nightmare for truckers and motorists — the dangerous Christmas Pass.
Known for its sharp curves and steep descent, the route has become a death trap, especially for heavily loaded haulage trucks. Weekly crashes, often involving brake failures or jack-knifing, have become the norm.
Now, authorities are moving decisively. The new bypass will feature two modern interchanges, similar in design to Trabablas, at Romeo Turn-off and another one at Mutare Teachers’ College.
The bypass will divert traffic away from the hazardous pass and ease congestion in the CBD, while also improving flow along the strategic Beira Corridor connecting Zimbabwe to Mozambique, Zambia, Malawi, and the DRC.
Local cntractor, Leengate Pvt Ltd, has already moved in equipment and started clearing the first four kilometres. The project is expected to be completed within 15 months.
Read | Trabablas Interchange: Zimbabwe Opens First-Ever Multi-Level Interchange
From a South African perspective, this development is worth watching. Zimbabwe seems to be building real momentum with its road infrastructure upgrades — not just on paper, but with concrete and steel. If the Trabablas Interchange was the signal of intent, these new Mutare interchanges prove it’s not a one-hit wonder.
For regional logistics players, this is a promising development. A safer, more efficient route through Mutare will benefit the broader SADC trucking community, especially those running loads between Durban and Beira.
The Trabablas effect is heading east!
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