Staff Writer
The Passengers Association of Zimbabwe has urged government to intensify enforcement of traffic laws and conduct thorough vehicle inspections to avoid and minimize accidents.
This follows a recent accident in Buhera were nine lives were lost.
Said PAZ in a statement:
“The Passengers Association of Zimbabwe is deeply saddened and disturbed by the tragic accident that occurred in the early hours of Friday in Buhera, Manicaland Province, where nine people drowned after a Gutu-Murambinda commuter omnibus rolled into Ruti Dam.
This incident raises serious concerns about passenger safety, vehicle roadworthiness, and the enforcement of transport regulations in Zimbabwe.
“The Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development issued a directive restricting commuter omnibuses to a 60km radius of operation. However, enforcement remains weak. On major routes, we continue to witness overloaded and uninsured kombis. Unroadworthy vehicles and operators without valid permits are operating with impunity, often facilitated by corruption.”
PAZ called for an intervention:
“PAZ therefore calls upon:
1. The Zimbabwe Republic Police to urgently intensify enforcement of traffic laws and conduct thorough vehicle inspections.
2. The Vehicle Inspection Department to carry out immediate blitzes on commuter omnibuses to ensure roadworthiness.
3. Transport Operators to prioritize passenger safety over profit and to desist from overloading and operating unfit vehicles.
4. Government to decisively address corruption that allows illegal operators to continue endangering lives.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families and communities affected by this tragedy. May the departed souls rest in peace.”