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THE Passengers Association of Zimbabwe (PAZ) has urged parents and schools to hire roadworthy buses for boarders returning for the first term to avoid accidents.
“Schools must hire roadworthy buses, and buses must travel during daytime, not at night. We advise schools to hire transport that’s compliant and has passenger liability cover.
“We will be monitoring passenger service vehicles during schools’ opening and beyond with the police to safeguard students, passenger safety and protection of their rights,” said PAZ in a statement.
The association also called upon commuters to board transport from designated points.
“We call upon commuters to consistently use public transport, especially kombis they are familiar with and buses instead of mishikashikas or private vehicles.
“Don’t board these vehicles despite transport challenges in Harare and other cities. Criminals are taking advantage of transport chaos in Harare.
“We are engaging the government on the transport crisis and limitations on ZUPCO availability, and other affordable transport.”
PAZ said it has also been working on the reduction of fares by transport operators.
“PAZ gratefully acknowledges positive conduct by public transporters under the ZPTO banner for not hiking long distance fares during the business peak festive season to capitalise on high service demand, but while prejudicing desperate passengers.
“For the record, PAZ has been lobbying against the practice in pursuit of its mission for a conducive travelling environment for public transport users.
“We also take this opportunity to commend the Zimbabwe Republic Police for a job well done during the festive season,” the association said.
Mathew Masinge
Online Reporter