Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo [email protected]
THE repainting of zebra crossings outside Babambeni Primary School along Old Khami Road was meant to improve the safety of learners crossing the busy roadway.
The initiative, undertaken by ZINARA, the Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe (TSCZ) and the Bulawayo City Council, also included practical demonstrations to teach pupils how to use the crossings safely.
However, despite the clearly marked pedestrian crossing, many learners continue to dash across the road at undesignated points, exposing themselves to the risk of being hit by speeding vehicles. Motorists also frequently fail to slow down or stop at the zebra crossing, further increasing the danger.
The situation has raised concern among parents and residents, who say the crossing alone is not enough to guarantee the children’s safety. They are calling for additional measures such as traffic marshals during peak school hours, speed-calming devices and stronger enforcement of road safety regulations around the school. Road safety experts have previously recommended such measures in school zones to protect young pedestrians.
