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Masvingo — The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) Masvingo Province has confirmed Dams and bridges infrastructure destruction incidents in Chipinda following a period of incessant and heavy rainfall that is pounding the area.
In a statement Masvingo provincial police spokesperson Inspector Kudakwashe Dhewa said on the morning of 12 January 2026, sustained rainfall caused destructions two Riverton Farm Dam walls in the Chipinda and Mutakaya areas of Zaka due to overtop and breach.
The resulting surge of water destroyed a section of the dam walls and washed away two bridges that cross the Chiredzi River—the Chipinda and Mutakaya Bridges which provides a vital link between local villages.
“There were no reported fatalities, injuries, or damage to homesteads as a result of the incident” Dhewa said.
However, the force of the water caused considerable damage to several gardens and agricultural fields in the immediate vicinity.
Assessments of the full extent of the damage are ongoing.
Police, in coordination with local authorities and the Civil Protection Unit (CPU), said those downstream of the breached dam must not attempt to cross the Chiredzi River at or near the affected area.
Inspector Dhewa said the destroyed bridges are impassable; crossing the river by foot or vehicle is extremely hazardous and life-threatening as currents remain unpredictable.
“Residents living in communities further downstream along the Chiredzi River should remain vigilant and exercise caution.” Reads part of the statement.
“Water levels may rise suddenly, and riverbanks may be unstable and villagers must keep livestock and children away from riverbanks
“Motorists and pedestrians must seek and use alternative routes until further notice and do not approach the damaged site,” added Inspector Dhewa.
Police and relevant emergency services are on the scene to manage the situation, secure the area, and prevent any unauthorized access to the hazardous zone while engineers from relevant government departments are en route to conduct a full technical assessment.
The public is urged to remain calm and cooperate, and to adhere to all safety directives issued by officials on the ground.
