Online Reporter
Theseus Shambare
MOTORISTS and passengers must utilise designated pick-up and drop-off points to ensure safety and orderliness, particularly in urban centres.
The call comes amid growing concerns over the prevalence of illegal and undesignated loading zones, which often lead to congestion, accidents and harassement of commuters.
Passenger Association of Zimbabwe president Mr Tafadzwa Goliati emphasised the critical need for adherence to designated areas, stating that the current chaotic situation poses significant risks to passengers and other road users.
“We are witnessing a worrying trend where motorists are picking up and dropping off passengers at any point they deem convenient, disregarding traffic regulations and endangering lives,” Mr Goliati said.
“This not only contributes to traffic jams but also exposes passengers to potential criminal activities and unfair pricing by unregistered operators.”
Mr Goliati stressed that designated areas are strategically chosen to ensure passenger safety, provide adequate space for vehicles and facilitate smoother traffic flow.
He called on law enforcement agencies to intensify their efforts in enforcing regulations and apprehending those operating outside the stipulated zones.
“Authorities need to be more visible and decisive in addressing this issue,” he said.
“Stiff penalties should be imposed on both drivers and passengers who violate these regulations.
“However, we dennounce speedy chases by enforcers which usually turns to endanger passersby. Instead, the police must make use of vehicle registration numbers to get to apprehend the culprits.”
Echoing Mr Goliati’s sentiments, the Zimbabwe Union of Drivers and Conductors (ZUDAC) president, Mr Pious Chidzenga, acknowledged the challenges faced by registered operators due to the proliferation of illegal passenger loading points.
“Our members who operate from designated ranks are losing business to unregistered individuals who flout the rules,” Mr Chidzenga said.
“This creates an uneven playing field and undermines the efforts of those trying to operate within the legal framework.”
He further urged passengers to prioritise their safety and board vehicles only at designated ranks and bus stops.
“Passengers have a crucial role to play in ending this chaos. By refusing to board vehicles from undesignated points, they will discourage this illegal practice and contribute to a more organised and safer transport system,” Mr Chidzenga said.
