The government of Tanzania will spend about TZS8.1 billion (US$3 million) on repairing roads and bridges damaged by recent heavy rains in Serengeti National Park, according to Daily News.
Ashatu Kijaji, Tanzania’s Minister of Natural Resources and Tourism, said the funds will be released immediately to rehabilitate infrastructure damaged by intense rainfall in recent weeks.
The rains washed away sections of road and damaged several bridges in the park, temporarily stranding tourist vehicles and disrupting safari routes.
“This funding will allow urgent rehabilitation of damaged bridges and roads so tourism operations can continue safely,” said Kijaji during an inspection of the park.
Repairs will include reconstruction of the Orangi Upper, Orangi Lower, Banagi and Bona bridges as well as culverts and crossings along the Naabi-Seronera road corridor. Part of the funding will also support engineering studies to strengthen infrastructure against future extreme weather.
Kijaji urged tour guides and drivers to follow instructions from Tanzania National Parks Authority rescue teams operating in the park, warning that crossing bridges when water levels are high could endanger lives.
Serengeti Chief Park Warden Ismail Omary said authorities completed temporary repairs, deployed rescue teams and arranged emergency accommodation for tourists and drivers stranded during the storms. Officials also waived overstay fees for visitors whose departures were delayed due to impassable roads.
