Staff Reporter
The Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe (TSCZ) has called on transport operators to stop imposing unreasonable performance targets on drivers, warning that this practice has been a major contributor to road traffic accidents throughout the festive season.
In a statement issued on December 30, 2024, TSCZ Chairman, K. K. Sibanda expressed concern over the alarming number of accidents recorded during the festive period, many of which were linked to driver fatigue and reckless driving.
“Unrealistic targets exert unnecessary pressure on drivers, forcing them to speed, take shortcuts, and forgo rest breaks in an effort to meet demands. This endangers lives and undermines road safety,” said Sibanda.
As part of its ongoing road safety efforts, the council has pledged to work closely with transport associations, law enforcement agencies, and community groups to develop policies that protect drivers from exploitation while promoting responsible driving.
“The safety of our roads is a shared responsibility. Operators must ensure drivers work under humane conditions, while passengers and law enforcement must remain vigilant against violations,” said Sibanda.
Statistics from the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) indicate that the country experienced a spike in road traffic accidents during the festive season, with a significant number involving public transport operators.
Police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi emphasized that most of these accidents could have been avoided if drivers had adhered to safe driving practices and transport operators had implemented reasonable policies.
“The festive season is always a high-risk period, and this year was no exception. However, the growing trend of drivers working under intense pressure from their employers is worrying. Transport operators must prioritize the welfare of their drivers to ensure safer roads,” Nyathi said.
Passengers have also raised concerns, recounting incidents of buses speeding dangerously, overtaking recklessly, and ignoring basic safety rules.
“One bus I traveled on was moving so fast that several passengers pleaded with the driver to slow down. He told us he had to meet a deadline or risk losing his job,” said a commuter on the Harare-Mutare route.
TSCZ has urged passengers to report such incidents to the authorities, promising to investigate and take action against operators found to be compromising public safety.
While the festive season may be ending, TSCZ emphasized that its road safety campaigns will continue into the New Year, aiming to reduce accidents and foster a culture of accountability among transport operators and drivers.
