The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has launched an ambitious operation to curb lawlessness in Harare’s public transport sector, targeting over 13,500 unregistered kombis and pirate taxis. This bold initiative addresses the alarming statistic that out of 16,500 commuter omnibuses operating in the city, only 2,950 meet regulatory requirements.
This effort, spearheaded by Commissioner Bazibi Dube and supported by senior police officers and transport stakeholders, aims to enforce compliance with traffic laws while restoring order on the roads. The operation is not bound by a fixed timeframe, with authorities indicating its continuation until significant improvements are achieved.The Scope and Challenges as its core, the operation targets unregistered public service vehicles, drivers operating without permits, and those disregarding designated routes and bus termini. Vehicles are required to meet stringent legal standards, including possession of operator’s licenses, insurance, fitness certificates, and route authorities.
However, many operators resort to evasive tactics, such as using side roads to avoid police checkpoints.Corruption among law enforcement and transport crews has also surfaced as a significant challenge. Commissioner Dube has issued stern warnings against such practices, emphasizing zero tolerance for corruption. This stance reflects the ZRP’s commitment to ensuring the operation is not undermined by internal or external misconduct.Stakeholder Involvement and Collaboration
The success of this initiative depends on collaboration between law enforcement, transport operators, and city authorities. Meetings chaired by Commissioner Dube and supported by Harare Province’s Commissioner Maxwell Chikunguru have served as platforms to align objectives and address mutual concerns.Key stakeholders, including the Zimbabwe Public Transport Organisation (ZPTO) and the Greater Harare Association of Commuter Operators (GHACO), have voiced their support while urging reforms. For instance, GHACO is actively engaging with the Harare City Council to address illegal pick-up points, a root cause of road congestion and corruption.
A Long-Term VisionWhile the operation has made significant strides, its longevity underscores the complexity of the problem. Commissioner Chikunguru’s emphasis on removing unroadworthy vehicles and addressing reckless driver behavior reflects a dual approach: immediate enforcement coupled with systemic reform.The broader impact of this operation extends beyond road safety. It aims to foster a culture of compliance, enhance public trust in law enforcement, and create a more organized urban transport system. By addressing root causes such as corruption and inadequate infrastructure, the ZRP is setting a precedent for sustainable urban management.
The Way ForwardThe operation is a test of the ZRP’s resolve and the willingness of transport operators to embrace reform. Success will depend on consistent enforcement, transparent processes, and stakeholder engagement. As Commissioner Dube aptly noted, the operation is here to stay, signaling the ZRP’s determination to transform Harare’s chaotic transport landscape into a model of order and efficiency.
