IN recent weeks, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has intensified efforts to tackle one of the most pressing issues facing our roads: unroadworthy vehicles, particularly in the public transport sector.
This move, as highlighted by recent traffic blitzes across the country, is a much-needed intervention in a nation where road safety has become a daily concern.
The importance of this crackdown cannot be overstated, especially as we face alarming statistics on road accidents and fatalities.
Since the start of 2025, Zimbabwe has seen a disturbing rise in the number of road accidents.
According to figures released by ZRP, the country has experienced over 4 000 accidents this year alone, with more than 1 200 fatalities.
The majority of the incidents are attributed to human error, but a significant portion can also be ascribed to vehicle defects, especially in public transport.
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The ZRP’s focus on unroadworthy vehicles is not just a timely response, but a crucial step in reducing preventable deaths and injuries.
Public transport in Zimbabwe has long been a vital part of the country’s infrastructure, but it has also been a major contributor to road accidents.
Overloading of buses and commuter omnibuses, coupled with poorly maintained vehicles, has led to numerous crashes.
The situation is exacerbated by reckless driving and lack of vehicle inspection.
ZRP’s latest blitz targets these very issues by ensuring that only roadworthy vehicles are allowed to operate, especially those that carry passengers.
This will go a long way in ensuring that the public is not exposed to unnecessary risks.
ZRP’s mission is clear: to maintain law and order, protect the lives and property of the people and institute dynamic policing practices that prevent and detect crime.
Road accidents, particularly those caused by unroadworthy vehicles, can be classified as a form of crime — crimes against human life and public safety.
By cracking down on unsafe vehicles, the ZRP is fulfilling its mandate to protect citizens and ensure the well-being of all Zimbabweans.
This is a manifestation of its commitment to uphold the Constitution, enforce the law and make our roads safe.
Yes, there are question marks about some of the enforcement tactics used by the officers or the behaviour of some when manning roadblocks, but we cannot fault their intention.
It is also worth noting that the ZRP intervention is more than just about enforcing laws; it is about creating a road safety culture that fosters awareness among motorists.
The use of roadblocks, mobile vehicle inspections and public awareness campaigns is an important part of this mission.
As we commend the ZRP for its efforts, it is crucial that this crackdown becomes part of a larger, long-term strategy to improve road safety in Zimbabwe.
Public transport operators must uphold high standards and the government should invest more in infrastructure and vehicle inspection programmes.
In addition, drivers and passengers alike must take personal responsibility for their safety and the safety of others.
It is noteworthy that the traffic jams that characterised Harare’s roads and are worse during the rainy season, are less because the police are proactively on the roads, ensuring safe and fast passage for law-abiding motorists and pedestrians.
In the face of such high risks on our roads, the ZRP commitment to policing effectively and dynamically could not be more timely.
This is a crucial moment in our journey towards safe roads and ZRP has proven it is up to the task.