Online Reporter
Arron Nyamayaro
THE Zimbabwe Republic Police traffic section has heeded calls from motorists for improved traffic management during peak hours, adopting a new strategy that prioritises control and traffic flow over strict enforcement.
The shift in approach follows concerns raised by motorists through the Community Liaison Committee (CLC), which argued that an overemphasis on enforcement during busy times was contributing to traffic gridlock.
Yesterday, Mr Nomore Phiri, the chairperson of the Harare District Traffic Community Liaison Committee, praised the police for their responsiveness and announced a new collaboration to raise road traffic awareness on key routes leading into the Central Business District.
“We would like to praise the relaunch of the police Client Service Charter, which fosters a better relationship between law enforcement and the public,” Mr Phiri said.
“Today (yesterday), we gather at the corner of Solomon Mujuru Road and Harare Drive, to address this critical issue.”
He emphasised that the police are committed to assessing congestion hotspots while simultaneously conducting public awareness campaigns.
“Some drivers have been creating makeshift lanes, which only add to the congestion. We urge all drivers to practice patience and adhere to road rules,” Mr Phiri said.
“We have also noticed unregistered ‘mushika shika’ vehicles that violate traffic regulations. We strongly advise passengers not to board these vehicles, as they pose significant risks.”
Mr Phiri said road safety efforts would be rolled out across Harare Province.
“Together, we aim to restore order on our roads.”
Superintendent Tendai Muza, who oversees traffic operations in Harare, urged motorists to comply with road rules to minimise the need for enforcement action during peak hours.
“We are deploying traffic officers during peak times to manage traffic flow without strict enforcement,” said Supt Muza. “However, some motorists, including kombi drivers, are provoking our officers by violating rules, which leads to delays.”
He stressed the importance of respecting all road users and adhering to traffic regulations.
“Creating makeshift lanes disrupts traffic flow,” Supt Muza said. “Police will not stand idly by while reckless driving endangers lives.”
He also appealed to pedestrians to refrain from hailing transport at street corners and to use designated bus stops instead.
Acknowledging the growing volume of vehicles on the roads, Supt Muza advised motorists to co-operate with officers managing intersections and to adjust their travel times where possible.
“We advise motorists to adjust their departure times to avoid rushing and competing with others,” he said.
Motorists have already begun to notice the positive impact of the new approach.
Ms Tanatswa Matibe praised the visibility of traffic officers during peak hours, noting a marked improvement in her commute.
“Traffic movement from Kuwadzana improved today due to their presence. We hope to see them controlling traffic daily instead of just enforcing fines,” she said.
Meanwhile, Mr Ngoni Katsvairo, chairperson of the Greater Harare Association of Commuter Omnibus Operations, highlighted ongoing efforts within the transport industry to encourage compliance among drivers.
“We are holding drivers accountable for traffic violations,” Mr Katsvairo said. “We urge transporters to blacklist drivers who violate rules to ensure safety on the roads. Kombi drivers, being among the most experienced, should lead by example and not tarnish the reputation of responsible drivers.”
