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Dr Obert Mpofu

Prosper Ndlovu Deputy News Editor—
TRANSPORT and Infrastructural Development Minister Dr Obert Mpofu yesterday said the proposed phasing out of kombis in urban areas was irreversible and urged operators to start investing in big capacity vehicles. The move to ban kombis sparked debate last weekend with operators fearing for their businesses while some felt the decision did not factor their contribution.

Dr Mpofu, who met transport operators in Bulawayo yesterday, said the phasing out of kombis was necessitated by the increase in vehicles which has caused congestion that is largely to blame for the upsurge in traffic accidents.

He however said the government was not shutting out kombi operators but was prepared to assist them buy the required vehicles.
“It is now clear that with challenges of urban vehicle congestion the solution lies in big capacity vehicles. It is true that we’ll be phasing out kombis but as government we will engage and talk to you,” said Dr Mpofu.

He said the ministry will soon stop issuing road permits to low capacity vehicles to encourage investment towards big buses. Dr Mpofu said this will go a long way in de-congesting and improving safety on the country’s roads.

The minister said transport operators should brace themselves for the proposed changes and start making mergers.
“I implore public transport operators to start investing in bigger buses. Those without capacity can merge. The government will assist you with funding. All modern countries are adopting this system and our neighbour South Africa is doing it. Let us not fight over this, kombis must go. We will not force this on you but we will do it together,” he said.

Dr Mpofu said the implementation of the proposed transport system changes will be supported by a vibrant road rehabilitation programme.
The government has also proposed to increase toll fees by about 100 percent as it seeks to increase revenue generated towards road infrastructure development.

This will see light vehicles paying $2 from $1 and heavy vehicles paying $10 from $5.
The establishment of urban toll gates is also on the cards.