Harare gives 7-day ultimatum to remove abandoned cars

The City of Harare has issued a seven-day ultimatum for owners of abandoned or broken-down vehicles to remove them from guarded car parks, shopping centres, and public open spaces, warning that failure to comply will result in council action.

City officials said the Acting Director of Urban Planning Services has been directed to notify operators of overnight guarded car parks to clear their premises of immobile vehicles, vehicle shells, and scrap metal within the specified period.

Speaking on the directive, city spokesperson Stanley Gama said the initiative aims to restore order, enhance public safety, and curb criminal activity linked to abandoned vehicles.

"We will notify car park operators and vehicle owners to remove them voluntarily, or we will be compelled to take action. Those who fail to comply will face penalties, and their vehicles will be impounded," Gama said.

He added that the council would coordinate with relevant authorities to ensure full enforcement.

"This is about making Harare safer and cleaner. Abandoned vehicles pose serious risks—they attract crime and make the environment unsightly," he said.

The council also warned that vehicles left unclaimed after the deadline will be removed at the owner's expense.

The directive forms part of a broader citywide clean-up and safety campaign aimed at restoring Harare's image and ensuring public spaces remain orderly. The move comes amid public concern following a recent tragedy in Kuwadzana Extension, where three missing children were found dead inside an abandoned Mercedes-Benz.