Dar-Mtwara transport services paralysed as floods sweep away bridge

TANZANIA: THE floods have swept away Mbwemkuru Bridge which connects regions of Dar es Salaam, Mtwara and Lindi, thus paralysing transport services between those regions.

The floods are result of the ongoing Masika rains pondering different parts of the country.

Following that upcountry buses travelling from Dar es Salaam to the southern regions are forced to end their journey at Kiranjeranje village, Lindi Region while those heading to Dar es Salaam from Southern regions of Ruvuma, Mtwara and Lindi stop anchor at side of the Bridge at Kitomanga Dispensary.

Meanwhile, the Tanzania Meteorological Authority (TMA) has reported that the expected Tropical Cyclone ‘HIDAYA’ has completely lost its strength after hitting Mafia Islands earlier on Sunday.

Authority’s updates were concluding a series of information that was being issued by the TMA since the 1st of May 2024 possible occurrence of the Tropical Cyclone “HIDAYA”. “The trend and patterns of weather systems indicate that in the past 6 hours, Tropical Cyclone “HIDAYA” has completely lost its strength after hitting Mafia Islands earlier today,” part of the statement said.

“Likewise, the remnants of the rainy clouds that accompanied the Tropical Cyclone have been observed to weaken and spreading out in various areas of the southern region of our country, particularly in Lindi, Mtwara, Morogoro and neighbouring areas, therefore, there is no further threat of Tropical Cyclone “HIDAYA” in our country.” However, periods of normal Masika rains are expected to continue in some areas, especially over the Lake Victoria basin, North-eastern highlands and Northern coast.

The authority therefore advised the public to continue making close follow-up, consider and effectively utilise forecast and early warning information from the Tanzania Meteorological Authority as well as advice and guidance issued by the relevant authorities as appropriate.