Expedite implementation of SI on cargo movement - RDA

THE Road Development Agency (RDA) has urged Zambia Railways Limited to expedite the full implementation of the Statutory Instrument (SI) No.7 of 2018 to enable the agency to protect roads.

RDA Chief Executive Officer George Manyele said the full implementation of the SI which compels 30 percent of bulk and heavy cargo to be transported by rail would help road assets in the country attain design life spans, reduce damage and save costs for the re-construction and maintenance.

Mr. Manyele was speaking in Kabwe during the meeting that would create signage between the two parties with the aim of creating a network that would help promote inter-linkages between the railway and the road transport sectors

He said the implementation of the SI would contribute to the reduction in the number of accidents caused by overloaded vehicles.

He said the Acts Road Control under RDA seeks to control overload and damage of roads to reduce running costs and increase profitability.

“We would like to know the status of the full implementation of the SI as RDA being the road authority is an interested stakeholder on this matter,” he said.

Mr. Manyele said the partnership would transform the country into a regional transport hub of the rail and road transport sector. He said that the road and railway sector could provide a framework for the development of integrated systems that would be accessible, efficient, and safe for all.

Speaking earlier, ZRL Chief Executive Officer Christopher Musonda assured continuous cooperation with RDA in the maintenance of about 136 bridges within its capacity.