Quthing, Mar.09 – The Ministry of Local Government, in collaboration with the Ministry of Public Works through the Roads Directorate and the Quthing District Council, is expected to address road transport challenges between Tosing and Dalewe during the course of this week.
In an interview with the Agency, Quthing District Administrator Mr. Bonang Tlali said the disruption follows flooding that damaged the bridge connecting Tosing and Ha-Mafura on Thursday night. He said the incident was caused by heavy rains that also triggered a landslide at the Gunuoe canyon slope, locally known as Letsoapong la Gunuone.
Mr. Tlali indicated that the mudslide has blocked the road, cutting off access to Tsatsane Health Centre and preventing, among other things, patient referrals to Quthing Government Hospital.
He emphasized that the government is aware of the situation, noting that the obstruction has negatively affected public service delivery in the area. He explained that the Tosing bridge is a vital link for communities in Tosing, Ha-Mafura, Dalewe and Tsatsane within the Mount Moorosi Constituency, and its closure has left residents struggling to access transport services.
He further stated that last week’s heavy rains also affected the road to Ha-Makoae. A culvert at Ha-‘Mone Valley was washed away along the Quthing River, after the route had only recently been cleared of a large rock at Mokae.
According to Mr. Tlali, local transport operators and residents have since constructed a temporary bypass using large stones while awaiting assistance from the Roads Directorate.
He warned that the absence of bridges across many rivers and streams in Quthing continues to pose serious risks to motorists and urged drivers to avoid crossing flooded waterways until conditions improve.
Mr. Tlali assured the public that the government is preparing maintenance and reconstruction works aimed at providing permanent solutions to the damaged infrastructure.
He also appealed for patience and cooperation from the public during the period of infrastructure improvements. In addition, he called on parents, guardians and teachers to ensure the safety of schoolchildren amid the dangers posed by heavy rains, strong winds and lightning.
Meanwhile, the Lesotho Meteorological Services (LMS) has indicated that the current weather conditions in Quthing are expected to persist until April.
Ends/NS/BM
