DODOMA: MEMBERS of the Rural and Urban Roads Agency (TARURA) Advisory Board recently visited and inspected ongoing construction projects in Dodoma Region, where Ecoroads technology is being employed to reduce costs.
The projects under inspection include the construction of a 6.95 km road in Chamwino District using Ecoroads technology, as well as the development of a 26.44-metre-long, 7-metre-wide stone bridge in Nghong’ona Ward, Dodoma.
Following the inspection, Board Chairman Engineer Florian Kabaka explained that the purpose of the visit was to evaluate the performance of this alternative technology and assess its suitability for potential use in other parts of the country.
“This technology is new to us, so it is essential to monitor and evaluate its effectiveness regularly. We have only recently begun using Ecoroads technology, with the road having been in use for seven months now. Given our country’s soil and environmental conditions, there is still much to learn to determine if it is appropriate for widespread adoption,” he said.
Engineer Florian Kabaka, Chairman of the Rural and Urban Roads Agency (TARURA) Advisory Board, praised the effectiveness and cost-efficiency of stone bridges in comparison to concrete and steel alternatives.
He emphasised the importance of ongoing supervision and monitoring of this infrastructure to ensure its durability.
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“Stone bridges have proven to be both effective and cost-efficient and it is crucial that TARURA maintains continuous oversight to ensure their longevity,” said Engineer Kabaka.
He also urged local communities to take responsibility for protecting the infrastructure in their areas and to promptly report any damage to ensure timely repairs.
TARURA’s Regional Manager for Dodoma, Engineer Edward Lemelo, explained that Ecoroads technology involves the use of chemical additives mixed with soil to significantly reduce road construction costs.
He assured that the technology’s effectiveness is under close observation, as they assess its potential for broader use across the country.
Engineer Lemelo further highlighted the success of stone bridges, noting that nine have already been completed in Dodoma, with an additional eight under construction.
Looking ahead to the next financial year, he revealed plans to build two large bridges, which will bring the total number of stone bridges built in the region to 19 within a short period.
Both engineers expressed optimism about the continued use of innovative technologies to enhance the country’s infrastructure while keeping costs manageable.
