By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
Beitbridge – Long-distance bus operators have abandoned the official Beitbridge Bus Terminus, citing steep parking fees and lack of development, instead relocating to an open space at the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services (ZPCS) grounds sparking a major revenue loss for the local authority and growing tensions in the transport sector.
The bus terminus, which has been under construction for several years, remains unfinished and largely unusable, according to frustrated bus drivers who spoke to Ziyah News network.
“They want us to pay more, but for what? The place has no shade, no proper facilities, not even decent toilets for our passengers,” said Bus driver who plies the Harare–Beitbridge route.
“We work long hours, and they expect us to rank at an incomplete terminus and still pay high fees? It’s unfair,” echoed another driver, who has joined dozens of others now operating from the ZPCS open grounds.
The relocation has created a parallel transport hub that bypasses the council-controlled facility, drawing concern from Beitbridge Municipality officials who accuse the drivers of undermining local revenue collection.
Speaking at during an interaction meeting with Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Hon. Albert Nguluvhe, Beitbridge Town Council Planning Officer Mr. S. Sibindi, who stood in for the Town Clerk, confirmed the exodus and raised alarm over its broader impact.
“Recently, buses have decided not to pay parking fees and migrated to the ZPCS grounds, citing unfinished works on the bus terminus,” said Sibindi.
“It should be noted that the Municipality of Beitbridge gave ZPCS land for the purposes of prison services, and the issue of parking remains the sole mandate of the Municipality. Revenue meant for the Municipality is now being diverted to Prisons, despite the transit population straining our limited resources.”
The situation has left the Municipality scrambling to complete the long-stalled terminus project, which remains partially developed due to funding constraints.
Sibindi used the platform to appeal directly to Minister Nguluvhe for urgent support, particularly for construction materials.
“We are pleading with the Ministry to assist us with pavement blocks to help us finish the ranking area. Without a complete terminus, both order and revenue continue to suffer,” he said.
The Minister acknowledged the concerns and pledged to ensure that ZPCS and the Municipality of Beitbridge find common ground in resolving the issue.