admin
Andile Tshuma, Chronicle Reporter
THE Zimbabwe United Passenger Company (Zupco) is mobilising over 200 kombis to service suburban routes in a development that will result in affordable fares for commuters in the city.
Government has already extended the Zupco franchise to urban commuter omnibus operators in Harare where people are charged $2 for a trip that is pegged at $4 by operators who are not on the scheme.
Under the scheme, commuter omnibuses will charge subsidised fares but will receive a lump sum payment over a given period of time.
Zupco divisional operations manager Mr Tineyi Rwasoka said consultations were underway to decide how much Bulawayo residents will be paying under the scheme but in some areas commuters are being charged $5 per trip by commuter omnibus operators.
Mr Rwasoka said they had to hold an unplanned meeting yesterday afternoon with some kombi operators who had come to inquire on the scheme at their offices ahead of their planned meeting that will be held today.
He said they were overwhelmed with responses from kombi operators in the city and they were targeting 223 kombis. “The news has been well received so far and we have already met about 50 operators today (yesterday). We are having our official meeting as said tomorrow (today) and we hope to have meaningful engagements,” said Mr Rwasoka.
He said the bus company was offering kombi operators $500 via bank transfers per day for 14 days pending.
Mr Rwasoka said the bus company would also provide fuel for the kombis.
In a telephone interview from Harare on Monday, Zupco acting Chief Executive Officer Mr Evaristo Madangwa said all those who want to be part of the transport system are welcome as long as their vehicle papers are in order. “Registration for the scheme will be done this week. All interested commuter omnibus operators are hereby advised to come to the Zupco depot along Khami Road for finer details,” he said.
Mr Madangwa said vehicle assessment will be done to ensure the safety of passengers.
Online Reporter