Harare council impounds 21,000 vehicles

More than 21 000 vehicles were impounded in Harare over the past year as the city council intensified enforcement operations aimed at restoring order and improving compliance among businesses and commuter operators.

The figures were revealed by City of Harare Chamber Secretary Mr Warren Chiwawa in an interview, where he said enforcement statistics showed that 21 094 vehicles were impounded during the period, while a further 40 038 were clamped for various violations.

Mr Chiwawa said the crackdown also targeted non-compliant businesses and illegal trading activities across the city. During the same period, council issued 7 071 shop licence tickets, shut down 2 015 shops for failing to meet regulatory requirements, and arrested 15 068 vendors operating illegally.

He said the enforcement drive was intended to yield tangible improvements in adherence to municipal by-laws and to restore order in the capital.

"The effect of these enforcement efforts has been increased compliance by business and commuter operators," said Mr Chiwawa. "This has encouraged a more orderly business environment in the city, although much is still to be done."

In addition to improving compliance, Mr Chiwawa said the programme had contributed to enhanced revenue inflows for the local authority, strengthening the council's capacity to deliver services.

City officials say enforcement operations will continue as part of broader efforts to improve urban management and compliance with municipal regulations.