Easter traffic blitz launched to curb road carnage in Mashonaland Central 

Source: Easter traffic blitz launched to curb road carnage in Mashonaland Central – herald

Fungai Lupande

Mashonaland Central Bureau

A multi-agency traffic awareness campaign has been launched along the Mount Darwin–Mkumbura Road as authorities intensify efforts to curb road carnage during the Easter holiday.

Speaking during the campaign at the 92-kilometre peg, acting provincial liaison officer Inspector Wonder Dzviti said the operation brings together several stakeholders in a coordinated push to promote road safety.

The joint campaign involves the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), Municipal Police, Vehicle Inspection Department (VID) officers, the Traffic Safety Council and other road safety partners.

Inspector Dzviti said the initiative comes in response to a spike in traffic accidents recorded in 2025, with authorities now determined to reverse the trend during the busy holiday period.

“We are encouraging motorists not to drink and drive and to exercise caution, especially when approaching accident scenes,” he said.

“Drivers must also ensure that all occupants wear seat belts at all times.”

Public transport operators, particularly bus crews and commuter transport providers, have also been urged to desist from overloading and reckless driving practices.

Buses were flagged down for overloading and fined during the campaign.

“They must adhere to all traffic regulations, including avoiding dangerous overtaking and speeding, which are major contributors to road traffic accidents,” Inspector Dzviti added.

Passengers have not been spared in the safety drive, with authorities urging the public to play their part by refusing to board overloaded vehicles.

The Easter holiday period is traditionally marked by increased travel, often accompanied by a surge in road traffic accidents.

Mr Isaih Mbanje, regional manager for the Traffic Safety Council in Mashonaland Central said this year’s campaign aims to instil discipline among both drivers and passengers to ensure safer roads across the province.

He expressed optimism that the collaborative approach will significantly reduce accidents and save lives during the holiday.