THE introduction of buses to ferry commuters from Cowdray Park to Bulawayo central business district is expected to bring relief to residents who have been facing serious transport challenges.
Member of Parliament for the constituency Arthur Mujeyi facilitated the initiative. He engaged Inter Africa Bus Services and other operators to service the suburb, where residents have long struggled with limited public transport and high fares.
“The issue of transport has been one of the biggest challenges affecting residents,” Mujeyi said.
“We have engaged the services of Inter Africa and other bus companies, including Revival Coaches, in an effort to help alleviate the transport crisis.”
The main hurdle remains securing a designated pick-up point in town, with Mujeyi currently in discussions with the city council to resolve the matter.
Councillors have welcomed the development as a timely response to community concerns.
Ward 15 councillor Ashton Mhlanga noted that kombi operators had raised fares by as much as 100% even before recent fuel price increases, placing a heavy burden on residents.
Ward 28 councillor Ntando Ndlovu said increasing the number of operators would introduce healthy competition and protect commuters from unfair pricing, while acknowledging that kombis remain essential to the local transport system.
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“The goal is not to replace kombis, but to create a balanced system where buses and kombis complement each other,” he said.
Ward 6 councillor Nkosinathi Hove Mpofu urged residents to fully utilise the buses, noting that increased usage can help to ease congestion and eliminate illegal taxis operating along 6th Avenue, where overcrowding has previously resulted in accidents.
He acknowledged that poor roads in some parts of Cowdray Park discouraged operators, adding that council should help in addressing infrastructure challenges.
The bus service is expected to provide thousands of residents with affordable commuting option while promoting a balanced public transport system in Bulawayo.
