A community’s struggle for quality living

The proposed construction of three new fuel stations in Avondale, Harare has sparked a contentious debate among residents and local authorities. The residents of Ward 17 have voiced their strong opposition to the establishment of these fuel stations, arguing that there is no justification for constructing three new fuel stations within a 500-metre  radius of each other.

This sentiment is echoed by the concerns of congestion, safety hazards, and the potential negative impact on the neighbourhood’s quality of life.

The proposed locations for two of the fuel stations on Argyle Road have particularly ignited the objections of residents.

Argyle Road, a crucial thoroughfare between West Road and Connaught Road, already grapples with heavy traffic volumes, especially during rush hours. The road’s challenging topography, combined with non-functional traffic lights and busy intersections, has become a hotbed for accidents, further exacerbating the existing safety concerns.

Residents have highlighted the fact that there are already nine operational fuel stations within a 1-kilometre radius, prompting them to question the necessity of additional fuel stations in the area.

Their apprehensions about the adverse effects on their quality of life have culminated in a petition, signed by over 250 residents, which has been submitted to a multitude of authorities, including Ward 17 Councillor Happymore Gotora, district officer Mrs. Marian Mverechena, City of Harare director of works Engineer Zvenyika Chawatama, and Local Government and Public Works Minister Winston Chitando.

The community’s concerns are further underscored by the statement of Ms. Carole Pearce, a resident and community leader, who expressed anger and dismay at what she described as negligent town planning.

She questioned whose interests are being served by the proliferation of fuel stations in their area and emphasised the residents’ determination to protect their neighbourhood and prevent the degradation of their quality of life.

The united front presented by Avondale residents against the construction of additional fuel stations is a testament to their unwavering commitment to safeguarding their community. They firmly believe that the current number of fuel stations is sufficient and that the proposed additions will only compound the existing traffic congestion and compromise the safety of road users.

Former Harare Metropolitan Provincial Affairs and Devolution Permanent Secretary, Mr Tafadzwa Muguti, last year expressed concern about the unbridled construction of fuel stations in Harare, citing it as “out of control.”

His remarks at a community engagement meeting with Highlands residents further shed light on the lack of consultation processes and the apparent absence of resident consent in the approval of these developments.