News / National
Transporters, passengers applaud Minister Mhona over festive breathalyser and speed camera rollout
52 mins ago |
43 Views
HARARE - The Zimbabwe Public Transport Organisation (ZIPTO) and commuter passengers have hailed Transport Minister Advocate Felix Mhona for finalising the procurement of breathalysers and speed cameras aimed at curbing road carnage during the festive season.
The equipment, procured through the Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe (TSCZ), will be deployed nationwide to support law enforcement and promote road safety.
Speaking at the official handover ceremony in Harare, ZIPTO Chairman Dr Sam Nhanhanga said the initiative would help reduce driver fatigue and discourage operators from pushing unrealistic trip targets.
"This is a clear message to transporters to prioritise safety over profits. The nationwide distribution of these machines will enhance monitoring and compliance," Nhanhanga said.
Enrose Musinake, a commuter from Stoneridge (Harare South), welcomed the move as a timely intervention to reduce accidents and empower authorities.
"This initiative ensures drivers are assessed, vehicles are fit, and speed is governed. It's a reprieve for passengers, especially during the festive season," Musinake said.
Harare Central MP Lovemore Jimu called for tougher penalties for traffic violations, suggesting that convictions for reckless driving should be equated to attempted murder.
"We must craft laws that send a deterrent signal. Human error on the road costs lives," Jimu said.
Minister Mhona said his ministry is working with the Ministry of Home Affairs, Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), and Vehicle Inspection Department (VID) on joint operations to enforce compliance.
"TSCZ and ZRP have finalised technical specifications for speed cameras. These measures will strengthen road discipline and public safety," Mhona said.
He added that the initiative aligns with the SADC Road Safety Action Plan, UN Decade of Action for Road Safety, and National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1), soon transitioning to NDS2.
Mhona noted that over 94% of road accidents in Zimbabwe are caused by human error, and the government is prioritising road safety as a national development issue.
"TSCZ has procured evidential breathalysers and printers, now handed over to ZRP," he announced.
ZRP spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi urged motorists to inspect tyres, windscreen wipers, and visibility equipment, especially during the rainy season.
"Speeding must be avoided. Vehicle fitness is key to saving lives," Nyathi said.
The equipment, procured through the Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe (TSCZ), will be deployed nationwide to support law enforcement and promote road safety.
Speaking at the official handover ceremony in Harare, ZIPTO Chairman Dr Sam Nhanhanga said the initiative would help reduce driver fatigue and discourage operators from pushing unrealistic trip targets.
"This is a clear message to transporters to prioritise safety over profits. The nationwide distribution of these machines will enhance monitoring and compliance," Nhanhanga said.
Enrose Musinake, a commuter from Stoneridge (Harare South), welcomed the move as a timely intervention to reduce accidents and empower authorities.
"This initiative ensures drivers are assessed, vehicles are fit, and speed is governed. It's a reprieve for passengers, especially during the festive season," Musinake said.
Harare Central MP Lovemore Jimu called for tougher penalties for traffic violations, suggesting that convictions for reckless driving should be equated to attempted murder.
Minister Mhona said his ministry is working with the Ministry of Home Affairs, Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), and Vehicle Inspection Department (VID) on joint operations to enforce compliance.
"TSCZ and ZRP have finalised technical specifications for speed cameras. These measures will strengthen road discipline and public safety," Mhona said.
He added that the initiative aligns with the SADC Road Safety Action Plan, UN Decade of Action for Road Safety, and National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1), soon transitioning to NDS2.
Mhona noted that over 94% of road accidents in Zimbabwe are caused by human error, and the government is prioritising road safety as a national development issue.
"TSCZ has procured evidential breathalysers and printers, now handed over to ZRP," he announced.
ZRP spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi urged motorists to inspect tyres, windscreen wipers, and visibility equipment, especially during the rainy season.
"Speeding must be avoided. Vehicle fitness is key to saving lives," Nyathi said.
Source - Byo24News
Join the discussion
Loading comments…
