Mat North Correspondent

Commuters in Victoria Falls and surrounding communities have commended the introduction of Zimbabwe United Passenger Company (ZUPCO) buses in the area, resulting in a reduction in bus fare by more than half.

Prior to the introduction of a ZUPCO fleet in the area, errant pirate taxis were charging commuters USD1 between the City of Victoria Falls and Lipunyu Business centre near the Victoria Falls International Airport.  ZUPCO is now charging ZWL50 for the same distance.

Gracious Ziwoya from Monde Village told Harare Post that the introduction of ZUPCO buses was a noble initiative.

“When we received the news that the ZUPCO bus crew was charging ZWL50 to and from town, we thought it was one of those many jokes. I then planned a journey to town the next day and the news was accurate. I was elated to say the least. This is what we want, affordable services,” she said.

Another villager from Lupinyu area, Khumbu Nyathi said there was comfort in the buses.

“We thank ZUPCO for remembering us. Even the service in those buses is excellent; we are not packed like sacks of grain. The buses are efficient; they stick to given timetables.

“It is even possible now to transport wares from town at a cheaper cost with ZUPCO buses,” Nyathi said.

A clandestine ride on the ZUPCO bus by Harare Post confirmed sentiments by Ziwoya and Nyathi.

According to the ZUPCO Manager for Victoria Falls depot, the bus company is also servicing routes such as Victoria Falls-Bulawayo, Victoria Falls -Binga, Victoria Falls -Hwange and others.

The manager also noted that plans were in the pipeline to service Victoria Falls- Harare and Victoria Falls-Jambezi and Victoria Falls-Musina (South Africa) routes.

The Government recently pledged to continue supporting the re-tooling of national public transporter as it regards it as a strategic national institution.