In a significant policy shift aimed at preserving the historic Victoria Falls Bridge, Zambia and Zimbabwe have reached an agreement to prohibit trains and heavy goods vehicles from utilizing the iconic, century-old structure. This decision was announced by Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema during the Engineering Institution of Zambia (EIZ) Conference held in Livingstone, Zambia.

President Hichilema elaborated that the two neighboring countries are committed to constructing a new road and rail bridge across the Zambezi River. This new infrastructure will be specifically designed to accommodate heavy traffic, thereby diverting the strain from the existing bridge. The Victoria Falls Bridge, which was constructed in 1905, currently serves as a vital artery for both road and rail traffic between Zimbabwe and Zambia, playing a crucial role in regional trade and tourism.

Once the new infrastructure is completed, trains and heavy trucks will be permanently redirected from the original bridge. President Hichilema emphasized the reasoning behind this move, stating, "This bridge you see here, this road and rail bridge over the falls here, we have taken a decision that we don't want heavy traffic anymore here. We don't want trains or 30-tonne truckers going through this bridge, it's not a new bridge, it's over 100 years. So we want to build another road and rail bridge a few kilometres downstream... and divert traffic as you enter Livingstone before."

The planned development is anticipated to significantly alleviate the pressure on the aging Victoria Falls Bridge. Concurrently, it is expected to enhance efficiency for cross-border transport and trade operations. The new bridge will feature provisions for both railway lines and modern highway traffic, ensuring a clear separation of heavy commercial transit from the historic crossing. This separation is particularly important given that the Victoria Falls Bridge itself is a major tourist attraction situated near the majestic Victoria Falls.