Online Reporter
Ivan Zhakata
Herald Correspondent
Private bus operators have vowed to keep their services running smoothly across the country and dismissed social media calls for a national stay-away as disruptive.
Speaking on behalf of the Zimbabwe Passenger Transporters Organisation (ZPTO), Inter Africa Bus Services operations director, Mr Charles Mukumba, said it was business as usual for all bus operators, including at major hubs like Mbare Musika and reassured commuters of uninterrupted services.
“Our buses are in full force at all ranks across the country, including our own Mbare Musika rank,” he said.
“We are also in the process of registering new buses to ensure we provide adequate transport to the travelling public. We do not want people to be stranded.”
Mr Mukumba said bus operators were playing a key role in complementing Government’s efforts to provide reliable transportation nationwide.
He further urged the public not to be swayed by misinformation online.
“We strongly reject the calls for a stay-away circulating on social media and urge all travellers not to fear these reports. People should travel freely,” Mr Mukumba said.
He also commended the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development for suspending rigid bus timetables, which had initially caused confusion due to a lack of coordination with law enforcement.
“At first, there was no official communication with the police, but the Minister of Transport heeded our plea and suspended the timetables. Things are now going on well,” Mr Mukumba said.
As the country navigates economic pressures and transport challenges, private bus operators said they remain committed to serving the public and maintaining order in the sector.
Bongani Ndlovu