Mkushi Town Council has commenced the construction of a modern bus station at a cost of K2.5 million being funded by the World Bank aimed at improving public transport services in the district.
Mkushi Town Council Chairperson, Melson Chilemu, says the first phase construction of the bus station has come at the right time as the road where buses are currently operating from is very busy.
Mr Chilemu explained that passengers often struggle to access transport, especially during the night thereby putting people’s lives at risk.
“The road is very busy and people are sometimes stranded at night due to transport challenges. The new bus station will help organise transport services in the district and ensure safety of passengers,” he said.
He added that the facility will also help increase revenue collection for the council and help the local authority meet its obligation of paying salaries and enhance service delivery.
“The project will also help the council raise revenue which can contribute to paying salaries and improving service delivery,” he added.
Meanwhile, Mkushi Town Council Engineer Allan Banda, who is managing the project, said the development will be implemented in phases.
“The first phase will include the construction of pavers, an ablution block, two guard rooms, a water reticulation system and a wall fence,” he said.
He added that the second phase will have additional infrastructure that will include the main bus station terminal.
“The second phase will include other facilities including the main bus station structure,” he explained.
And Afriwood and Development Limited Site Manager, Brighton Hanyuulu said the land allocated for the project is large enough to accommodate many buses.
“The project is being constructed on about 3,500 square metres of land, which is big enough to accommodate many buses and will improve the appearance of Mkushi town,” he said.
The construction works have created employment for 10 local people and are expected to be completed within 60 days.
