THE government has moved to address heavy traffic congestion along the Great North Road between 6 and 10 Miles as construction of the Lusaka–Ndola dual carriageway intensifies.
The stretch, now a construction hotspot for the dual carriageway, has become a daily frustration for drivers, with some taking up to three hours to crawl through just a few kilometres.
This scene has triggered a flood of complaints from road users who have expressed frustration over the prolonged traffic jams in the area.
According to authorities, the situation was worsened by non-adherence to traffic management plans, poor signage and reckless driving including motorists using road shoulders and driving on the wrong side of the road.
In response, the Road Development Agency (RDA) has teamed up with the Road Transport and Safety Agency (RTSA) and the Zambia Police Service to restore order and ease the pressure on motorists.
Director spokesperson at the Ministry of Information and Media, Henry Kapata, said the government was aware of the inconvenience being experienced by motorists and has taken swift action to ease the situation.
“Now the government, through the RDA, RTSA and Zambia Police, has moved to implement immediate traffic management measures to improve flow and safety,” Kapata said.
Among the new measures include the deployment of trained traffic flaggers at critical points, installation of reflective and clear temporary signage to guide motorists and separation of construction and public traffic using barriers and cones.
RTSA and police officers have also been directed to intensify patrols during peak hours to curb dangerous overtaking and the notorious wrong-side driving that has worsened congestion.
Authorities have also planned a joint public information campaign through radio, social media, and roadside messaging to keep motorists stay informed of expected delays and to promote adherence to on-site traffic controllers.
The government said they are aware of the frustrations but insist that the inconveniences are temporary and necessary for a long-term gain.
Once completed, the Lusaka-Ndola dual carriageway is expected to slash travel time and boost trade for thousands of travellers each day.
By George Musonda
Kalemba October 6, 2025
