Zimbabwe bus operators urged to take action after ban on combi buses

Large bus operators are preparing to cope with increased demand following the introduction of new government restrictions restricting commuter buses to operate within a 60km radius. The move aims to improve road safety by limiting combis to city and suburban routes, while buses with a capacity of more than 26 passengers will cover long-distance journeys.

Transport Minister Felix Mhona said the policy was part of a wider effort to improve road safety, which requires all station wagons to be fitted with speed measuring and monitoring devices.

Bus operators have assured there will be no shortage of transport as they have enough buses to meet demand. They are also working to expand services to rural areas and improve safety by ensuring compliance with speed regulations, training drivers and tracking buses in real time.

Meanwhile, the Greater Harare Association of Commuter Omnibuses has expressed concern about being caught off guard by the new regulations and is seeking dialogue with the government.

The Zimbabwe Road Safety Council has highlighted the rising number of road accidents, with more than 1,500 deaths recorded in the first nine months of 2023, and the country losing more than $400 million annually due to road accidents.