Zimbabwe traffic blitz nets 9 000 drivers

As part of Operation Tame the Traffic Jungle, the police have apprehended over 9,000 motorists for breaching road regulations, as authorities intensify efforts to enforce compliance with traffic laws. Since the operation's launch last Wednesday, more than 4,000 vehicles, including unregistered cars, pirate taxis, and commuter omnibuses, have been seized.

National police spokesperson, Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi, reported, "The ZRP reports that a total of 9,673 arrests have been made during the ongoing operation 'Tame the Traffic Jungle.' A total of 4,307 vehicles have been impounded for operating on the country's roads with defects, while 309 vehicles have been impounded for having no registration plates."

The operation also targets individuals who flout street parking regulations, particularly in urban areas where undisciplined parking has become widespread. Additionally, it addresses vehicles that have entered the country without paying duty.

This multi-agency operation involves various entities such as the Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe, the Vehicle Examination Department, the Insurance Council of Zimbabwe, the Zimbabwe National Roads Administration, the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority, and city and town councils.

The operation has led to a shortage of public transportation in Harare, resulting in illegal transport providers raising fares. Tafadzwa Goliati, the national coordinator of the Passengers Association of Zimbabwe (PAZ), expressed the need for a comprehensive approach involving the public transport community. He emphasized the importance of inclusive dialogue between public transport operators and law enforcement agencies to find sustainable solutions.

While Goliati acknowledged the importance of restoring order on the country's roads, he also highlighted the negative impact such operations have on commuters, including increased transportation costs and difficulties for learners and workers.

Precious Shumba, the executive director of the Harare Residents Trust, called for the development of an organized modernized mass public transportation system as a lasting solution. He suggested the establishment of a functional public transportation system, including a Chitungwiza-Harare railway line and a mass tram bus system, along with efficient railway transport connecting suburbs and industrial areas. Shumba also emphasized the importance of modern self-contained suburbs with service centers to reduce the need for travel to the central business district for basic services.