Pedestrians, drivers warned against headphone use on roads

Drivers and pedestrians have been urged to stop using headphones and mobile phones while on the road, as authorities warn that distraction and reduced awareness continue to fuel fatal accidents. The call was made by Officer Commanding Harare Province, Commissioner Maxwell Chikunguru, during the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims commemorated at Manyame Bridge, a notorious accident hotspot along Seke Road in Chitungwiza.

Commissioner Chikunguru said the use of mobile phones by both motorists and pedestrians has become a major contributor to road traffic collisions. He also warned kombi drivers of an ongoing police operation targeting unroadworthy vehicles and those picking up passengers at undesignated points.

Addressing mourners and stakeholders, Comm Chikunguru said the event was an opportunity to reflect on lives lost in preventable crashes. He commended Chief Seke for organising the gathering, noting that it united the police, community leaders and affected families in honouring victims.

"We honour the men, women and children whose lives were cut short, and we remember survivors living with pain, trauma and long-term injuries," he said. "On behalf of the Zimbabwe Republic Police, I extend heartfelt condolences to all bereaved families. While no words can erase your loss, today affirms that your loved ones are not forgotten."

He urged the public to treat road safety as a matter of preserving human life, noting that tragedies along Seke Road were linked to speeding, reckless overtaking, drunk driving and the use of unroadworthy vehicles. Police, he said, would intensify enforcement, increase visibility and continue awareness campaigns along the stretch.

"Enforcement alone is not enough. We appeal to all road users to adopt life-saving habits. Maintain safe speeds, overtake only when the road is clear, never drink and drive, and do not use mobile phones behind the wheel," he said.

Comm Chikunguru also encouraged pedestrians to use designated crossing points and remain vigilant, while urging passengers to speak up against reckless driving. He said community leaders and transport operators must work with authorities to transform the accident-prone area into a symbol of responsibility and hope.

Chief Seke, born Stanley Chimanikire, criticised some traffic police officers for allowing unroadworthy vehicles to pass checkpoints. He said the community continued to grieve each time it passed the spot where 17 people died, and suggested that bereaved families might consider erecting a memorial statue at the site.

Madzibaba Simbarashe Nengomasha added that the church was praying for an end to accidents caused by drug-impaired drivers. He said substance abuse among drivers was wreaking havoc both on the roads and in homes, and that churches were counselling affected families.

The event drew traditional leaders, ward councillors and schoolchildren, underscoring a strong community commitment to road safety.