Luanda: The Angolan Government has stepped up efforts to develop durable unpaved roads and control heavy traffic through the Angola Engineering Laboratory (LEA) and the strategic installation of weighbridges across the national road network, according to Minister of Public Works, Urban Planning and Housing Carlos dos Santos.
According to Angola Press News Agency, the minister made the statement in Luanda during the 23rd edition of the Caf©Cipra dialogue forum, held under the theme 'Road construction as a driver of national production'. Investment in unpaved roads aims to provide a faster and more economical alternative for ensuring mobility throughout the country, facilitating the transport of agricultural produce and goods from production centres to consumer markets.
The minister also highlighted improved access to essential sectors such as tourism, healthcare, and mining areas. To ensure the durability of the roads, he explained that soil stabilisers suited to the specific conditions of each region - East, North, and South - were being used, following technical tests conducted by the LEA in partnership with companies in the sector.
As part of efforts to preserve infrastructure, Carlos dos Santos announced that weighbridges would be installed this year at strategic locations with heavy traffic, particularly along National Road 230 (EN-230), in the Maria Teresa area and at the entrance to Saurimo. The plan also covers the EN-100, beyond Barra do Kwanza, where final technical tests are under way, as well as the section between Cuanza-Sul and Benguela.
As a definitive measure, the minister said all new contracts for interventions on the road network at critical points would be required to include weighbridges within their scope of work, with the aim of curbing overloading and ensuring the preservation of the country's asphalt roads and bridges.
