Anesu Pedzisayi
Amid the several economic challenges that the country is facing and the interventions Government is making in addressing them, the transport system has been one of the key issues that needed immediate relief.
At the beginning of the week, Government re-introduced the mass public transportation system by availing Zimbabwe United Passenger Company (ZUPCO) bus services to most suburbs in Harare, as well as the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) passenger train, in Bulawayo. These would ferry commuters to the Central Business District (CBD) at subsidised fares that have proven to be affordable to most commuters.
Sentiments from the public are unanimous in that Government has shown sincerity towards making sure that its citizens have access to affordable and safe transport network. Not only have the mass public transport system proven to have a convenient schedule, but also safe and reliable to the public.
For a long time, citizens were being short-changed by transport operators, who were charging ridiculously high fares that forced many to tighten their belts. In addition, commuters were facing harassment and bullying from mahwindi / touts, who seemed to think they were doing commuters a favour by providing the service, yet it’s a two way partnership.
The intervention by Government will also contribute towards bringing order and sanitation in the CBD. This is so because the buses will be using designated bus terminus and routes, unlike mshika mshika and combis that were not orderly and were operating from undesignated places. These were also contributing to congestion and lawlessness on the roads.
Government may also take it upon itself to make sure that drivers who are contracted are qualified and have enough experience to minimise on road traffic accidents. Most commuter omnibuses were being driven by inexperienced, recklessness and young persons who would also be under the influence of marijuana and bron-clear. This has resulted in the death of many citizens due to human error. The mass public transport would help in curbing these deaths associated with negligence and human error.
Over time, Government should consider introducing the same services to other towns so that everyone benefits. The NRZ should be fully resuscitated as it can transport more people and can cater for long distance travels. In the mean-time, Government should be thanked for being sincere towards addressing the transports concerns of its citizens.
