INFRASTRUCTURE development is a catalyst to national economic growth but not when the structures pose a danger to sustainable environmental management.
It is, therefore, with this background that I support Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA)’s decision to reject the proposed construction of a fuel service station next to Woodlands Stadium.
I appreciate that constructing a service station would create jobs for some people, service motorists in that community as well contribute to the national treasury through taxes, but that infrastructure development should not pose a danger to the environment.
Equally, I appreciate that City of Lusaka, owners of the stadium need finances, hence that lease of land but I believe putting up a more sustainable infrastructure could do better than a mere filling station.
The land around the stadium is adequate to rehabilitate the facility into something modern with social amenities like shops, bars, car park or conference facilities for hire.
Another good suggestion can be gymnasium, tennis, basketball, netball courts to make the area become a sports complex that should cater for various sports disciplines and youths who lack sports recreation facilities.
Food for thought!
I am sure City of Lusaka can find suitable developers and financers who help them pursue the project in that manner and not just a fuel service station.
As ZEMA has observed in its findings, the site for the proposed project is located adjacent to the stadium and would pose safety, security and health hazards, especially that the main entrance for the low cost tickets is located next to the proposed service station.
Crowd control during matches could be a challenge as football fans and service station customers would mingle in spite of whatever measures the proprietors may put in place.
This is a bitter pill to swallow for both the club and Spectra Oil Corporation that was to set up a fuel service station but there is also need to look at the future projects like expansion of the stadium as well as the Mosi-oa-Tunya road looking at the traffic that takes place at peak hours.
Woodlands Stadium needs to undergo massive renovations works especially the supporting wall fence which is an accident in waiting. A close look on the wall reveals a sorry sight of dilapidated structures which, if not careful, can collapse any time.
From my mailbag, Walter Kachimba writes, It was great to see our girls make their maiden appearance at the FIFA Under-17 women World Cup, but one disappointing issue was the lack of names on our players jerseys.
I am sure any official at FAZ that knows his job should know that an event of this magnitude requires jerseys with players names’ not just country names! I thought we knew of our participation months ago?? FAZ should put their act together and stop embarrassing the country.
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