ZUPCO invites bus operators to join franchise

The Zimbabwe United Passenger Company (ZUPCO) is extending an invitation to bus and commuter omnibus operators to join the franchise system which is still open in Harare, Bulawayo and Manicaland Provinces.

Private entities and operators are advised to notify ZUPCO, through a letter of intent to join the franchise system.

Zupco had mobilised nearly 1 000 of buses and kombis to service suburban routes across the country, a development that has resulted in affordable fares to the public.

Government extended the Zupco franchise to urban commuter omnibus operators across the country’s cities where people are charged affordable fees.

Zupco acting chief executive officer Mr Evaristo Madangwa said, ZUPCO is still waiting for franchising buses, private entities and operators.

“We are still franchising buses, private entities and operators are advised to notify ZUPCO through a letter of intent to join the franchise system.”

“I am proud to say that already we have many buses and kombis under the ZUPCO fleet, so far work is progressing well.”

“The bus company is looking to engage compliant operators with vehicles whose documents are in order.”

“We do not just want any bus or kombi, but we want vehicles that are licensed, roadworthy with certificates of fitness, operator’s license and other necessary prerequisites for a public service vehicle,” he said.

The commuting public is urged to wait for buses at safe and designated boarding points to ensure the safety of passengers and crew.

In a statement, for acceptance in the franchise system the vehicle must have certificate of fitness, vehicle insurance and passenger insurance while the driver must have valid retest license, defensive driving certificate, medical certificate and the license must be more than three years.

Mr Madangwa said the Government continues to step up efforts to alleviate transport woes in the country.

“Government is determined to address transport challenges through prioritising comprehensive urban public transport systems to increase convenience to the commuting public.”

“Government was committed to easing transport challenges by availing reliable and affordable transport to the people in line with Vision 2030 of transforming the country into an upper middle-income economy.”

“The issue of transport is a challenge that Government is seized with, he said. The decision to compel all urban transport operators to ply their trade under the control or oversight of Zupco derives from the National Development Strategy 1 where it is noted that public transport in cities must have a single operational controller to be effective.-heradlc.l.zw