By MAIMBO MWEEMBA
A-33-year-old man of Chingola’s Gibson Chifwebwe ward has died after drowning at a flooded Lulamba-Twatasha bridge.
It is believed that on Saturday, January, 8, 2022 John Chilawo in the company of friend while drunk tried to cross the flooded Lulamba-Twatasha Bridge.
The dual later fell into the stream where Chilawo drowned and his body was discovered on Monday entangled in the submerged aquatic vegetation.
The other man, who is unidentified, survived.
Chingola Constituency Member of Parliament Chipoka Mulenga has expressed concern over the bad state of the bridge and pledged quick action to prevent another tragedy from occurring.
Mr Mulenga said that the loss of John was unfortunate and said the problem needs to be addressed from the source.
He said that the bridge can only stop flooding if connecting drainages are properly connected to avoid over spills.
Mr Chipoka who is also Commerce and Trade minister, said this when he visited the funeral house that Government is greatly affected by the loss of a live in the area.
He said the UPND Government will do everything possible to ensure that no life is lost at the bridge due to drowning.
Mr Chipoka said that the elected leaders must not only be seen when there is a tragedy but also to be there always and perform according to what electorates want.
And the uncle to the late victim Sampa Chishimba said there is need for Government to be proactive in many areas to avoid eventualities.
Mr Chishimba said that during campaigns, the UPND promised to work on rebuilding the bridge which has not happened.
And Mr Chishimba also thanked the MP for the help rendered during the period of loss.
And Twatasha ward Councilor Jeff Musonda said that this was not the first time a life was lost along the bridge.
He said that he will lobby for financial help to so that the bridge is upgraded.
Mr Chipoka was accompanied by Chingola District commissioner Raphael Chimupi, and other district party officials.
