Nevanji Munyaradzi Chiondegwa
HARARE – In a move aimed at curbing road traffic accidents, the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development has announced new regulations for kombis, the country’s minibus taxis.
Effective September 3, 2024, kombis with a capacity of 26 passengers or less will be restricted to operating within a 60-kilometer radius. This policy shift aims to encourage commuters traveling longer distances to opt for larger-capacity buses, deemed safer and more reliable for long-haul journeys.
Furthermore, all kombis operating within the 60-kilometer radius will be mandated to install speed limiting and monitoring devices, as stipulated by Statutory Instrument 118 of 2023. Enforcement officers will be actively ensuring compliance with this regulation, and operators found without the devices will face penalties.
The Ministry also addressed the issue of unauthorized picking and dropping of passengers, which has been linked to damage to road infrastructure. Enforcement officers have been instructed to penalize kombis and unauthorized vehicles that operate outside designated pick-up and drop-off points.
“These measures are part of a broader effort to improve road safety in Zimbabwe,” said Transport Minister, Hon Felix Tapiwa Mhona.
“We urge all stakeholders, including motorists, transport operators, and passengers, to cooperate with these new regulations and prioritize safety on our roads.”
The Ministry has pledged to work closely with traffic law enforcement agencies and road safety advocates to ensure the effective implementation of these new regulations.
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