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have reverted to normal fares as human traffic has significantly dropped.
A survey by Chronicle at Bulawayo’s Renkini, Entumbane and Nkulumane long distance bus termini yesterday revealed that the number of people travelling had significantly dropped compared to a few days before Christmas and new year holidays.
The fare for a trip from Bulawayo to Harare, which had been increased to $25, has gone back to the usual $15.
That from Bulawayo to Mutare, which was costing travellers between $30 and $35 last week, is now pegged at $15.
Travellers also confirmed that from Bulawayo to Nkayi the fare is now the usual $7 instead of $15, while those travelling to Botswana from Bulawayo are paying $15 down from $30 which they were paying last week.
However, long distance travellers who spoke to Chronicle expressed concern over the uncertainty of fares during public holidays, saying they should be fixed throughout the year.
“I am happy that transport operators are now charging normal fares. It is probably because the number of people travelling dropped,” said Mr Emmanuel Dube from Entumbane.
“However, we still want the Government to do something to stop transport operators from increasing fares during holidays or at the beginning of every school term. Transport operators have taken advantage of us for a
long time and it is not fair for travellers to pay double fares just because there is high demand for transport.”
He said some people cancelled their trips last week as they could not afford the new fares transport operators were charging.
“Most people depend on public transport to move from one place to another. If the Government cannot control the fares, the police can at least consider looking into this issue during public holidays.
“Some people cancelled their planned trips as they could not afford the exorbitant fares they were asked to pay by operators,” said Mr Dube.
A bus driver who spoke on condition of anonymity said it was a tradition to increase fares during the holidays, as they would be spending their precious time on the roads instead of being with their families.
“Most people, including the passengers that we ferry to their respective destinations, will be going to spend quality time with their families and friends, which is a different case with us.
“We therefore think that it is fair for travellers to pay an extra fare as a token of appreciation. We also have families but if we all decide to stay at home, those who do not own cars will experience the worst holidays ever,” said the driver who said some of the money was paid to workers as incentives.
He said they would be doing the same during the Easter holidays when most people also travel to different places for church conferences or to be with their loved ones.
Last week, the Secretary for Transport, Communications and Infrastructure Development, Mr Patson Mbiriri said transport operators charging exorbitant fares risked losing their permits.
He also advised travellers to report transport operators who charged outrageous fares to either the police or his ministry.
Online Reporter