Staff Reporter
Government has announced a reduction in the radius restrictions for commuter omnibus (kombis) in a bid to mitigate the increasing road carnage involving the commuter omnibuses (kombis).
In a statement yesterday, the Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development, Felix Mhona, said that the maximum radius for kombis with 26 seats and below has been reduced from 120 kilometres to 60 kilometres.
This policy adjustment aims to restrict smaller kombis to operate within a 60-kilometre radius, enhancing passenger safety by confining these vehicles to shorter routes, which are deemed more manageable and safer for public transport.
The Minister said that this measure was part of broader efforts to improve the country's road safety regime, citing the need for robust policies, regulatory frameworks, and administrative mechanisms.
"The decision to restrict kombis to 60 kilometre radius is expected to decrease the likelihood of accidents involving these vehicles, whose drivers have a notorious reputation for speeding and reckless driving on long-distance routes," said Minister Mhona in a statement.
The Minister further highlighted that high-capacity buses were more suitable for longer routes due to their design and capability to offer safer travel conditions compared to smaller kombis.
Minister Mhona also emphasised the requirement for all kombi operators to ensure compliance with existing vehicle fitness regulations, which include the installation of speed-limiting and monitoring devices.
The Minister warned that any operator found in violation of these regulations, including loading and picking up passengers at undesignated areas, will face penalties. The potential penalties may include revocation of route permits.
"This initiative is part of the Government's commitment to reducing road fatalities by enforcing stricter controls on public transport. We are rallying all traffic law enforcement agencies, road safety actors, motorists, and road users to collaborate in this endeavour,” said the Minister.
The move has been met with widespread approval from various sectors of the community.
Nkululeko Sibanda, a regular commuter, applauded the decision, saying, "This is a welcome development. Kombis are notorious for reckless driving, especially on longer routes. This restriction will hopefully bring some order and safety to our roads."
Transport economist Grace Chikuni expressed her support, noting, "The 60-kilometre limit for kombis will encourage the use of more suitable vehicles for long-distance travel, reducing the strain on smaller kombis and minimising road accidents."
A representative of the Passenger Association of Zimbabwe, Tafadzwa Gumbwanda, also commended the policy, adding, "Passengers' safety should always come first. This policy will make public transport more predictable and safer, curbing the reckless behaviour that has plagued kombi operators for years."
As the Government enforces these new restrictions, it calls upon all stakeholders to adhere to the new measures in a joint effort to reduce road traffic accidents and fatalities across Zimbabwe's road network.
