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Freeman Razemba
Senior Reporter
The Government has reviewed and implemented the radius-based restrictions for commuter omnibuses from the current 120 km to 60 km, a move aimed at improving road safety on the country’s major roads.
This applies to commuter omnibuses with a seating capacity of 26 passengers and below.
In a statement, Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona confirmed the developments.
“As the ministry endeavors to mitigate against road traffic accidents involving kombis, a policy position has been taken to review the current radius-based restrictions for kombis on the issuance of route permits from 120 km to 60 km with effect from September 3, 2004, for operators seeking new permits,” he said.
“This is one of the many robust policies, regulatory and administrative mechanisms being adopted to improve the country’s road safety regime.
“Thus, it implies that all 26-seater kombis and below, will be restricted to offer transport services within a radius of distances not exceeding 60 km.
“We urge all commuters travelling beyond the 60 km radius to use transport services offered by high-capacity buses. These buses are more predictable, reliable, comfortable and more consistent than the quality of service offered by kombis on long-distance routes.”
The minister added, “Buses also have greater leg space and baggage space for long-distance travellers than kombis, which makes buses more deal for long-distance journeys.
“Further, the kombis operating within the 60 km radius are prohibited from operating without installation of speed Iimiting and monitoring devices in terms of Section 3 (1) of Statutory Instrument 118 of 2023, which prescribes that no person shall operate or drive on any road, a passenger public service vehicle registered in Zimbabwe unless both of the devices are fitted to the vehicle.”
Online Reporter