President Kovind commences work on 93km Lusaka Traffic Decongestion Project

Speed Post News Network

New Delhi : The President of India Ram Nath Kovind and the President of Zambia Edgar Chagwa Lungu ceremonially commenced work on the 93-km Lusaka Traffic Decongestion Project on April 12, 2018, the final day of President Kovind’s state visit to three African nations, Equatorial Guinea, Swaziland and Zambia.

The Lusaka Traffic Decongestion Project has received substantial financial support from the Government of India and is being executed by an Indian company, AFCONS Infrastructure. 

Speaking on the occasion, President Kovind said that development partnership and economic cooperation are key pillars of India-Zambia relations. He was happy to note that the two countries are collaborating on projects that will benefit the citizens of Zambia. He said that India appreciates the people-centric approach of the Zambian government in its programmes and policies, according to a PIB release.

The President said that traffic congestion is a modern day challenge in urban centres across the world. The economic costs of traffic gridlocks and the additional burden of traffic congestion on the health and well being of commuters are well-documented. He expressed hope that the Lusaka project would lead to further cooperation between Zambia and India on socially relevant initiatives.

Later in the day, the President travelled to Livingstone and addressed the Indian community there. He said that the government of India seeks sustained and proactive engagement with the overseas Indian community. Dialogue with the diaspora is aimed at providing possibilities and platforms through which it can learn about as well as participate in India’s transformation and link this transformation with the developmental priorities of Zambia.

Following a short visit to the Victoria Falls, President Kovind will return to Lusaka and board the flight to Delhi. He is expected to land in India early in the morning on April 13, 2018.