National News - Social Good - 5 days ago

Government Permits Bus Operators to Suspend Timetables for Holiday Season

Editor 5 days ago

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The Government has authorised bus operators to temporarily suspend their timetables during the holiday season to address travel challenges as schools close and the Independence and Easter holidays approach. The measure aims to facilitate smoother transportation for passengers during this busy period.

The request to suspend timetables was made by Dr Sam Nanhanga, chairperson of the Zimbabwe Passenger Transport Organisation, to the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development. In response, Engineer Joy Makumbe, Permanent Secretary for Transport, confirmed that the suspension would take effect immediately and continue until 18 May 2025. “This decision is intended to ensure smooth travel for passengers and reduce delays during the holidays and end-of-term periods,” Makumbe explained.

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Bus operators have welcomed the decision, with Dr Nanhanga expressing appreciation for the move, highlighting that road repairs, congestion, and numerous checkpoints often result in delays. “Operators were being penalised for falling behind schedule due to these unavoidable issues. This suspension is necessary,” he stated.

While adjusting schedules to meet increased demand, Dr Nanhanga urged operators to prioritise road safety and avoid exploiting the situation by speeding, overloading, or using unsafe vehicles. He also stressed the importance of maintaining fair ticket prices during this peak travel time.

The Ministry has assured that traffic enforcement authorities will be informed about the temporary change, ensuring compliance and reducing unnecessary penalties for bus operators. The flexibility granted by the suspension of timetables allows operators to better cater to the needs of passengers during the holiday period.

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