Train was a danger to passengers - Ramsden

DIRANG LEKUNTWANE
Correspondent | Tuesday September 21, 2010 00:00

But moves to re-introduce the passenger service could be considered by government in the near future.  Minister of Transport and Communication Frank Ramsden said this yesterday at the two-day Road Transport Pitso 2010.'We stopped the use of the passenger train because it could bring dire consequences  for passengers' he said.

The theme of the conference is 'Effective and Efficient Transport System Stakeholders Involvement - A key Driver To Economic Growth'.  Addressing attendees, Ramsden said both rail and road networking were essential locally and for cross-border operations with neighbouring countries especially Zimbabwe, Zambia and South Africa.  He said the transportation industry was important because it contributed positively to the country's economy. He noted that transport operators should venture into business opportunities created by the growing tourism sector.

Ramsden mentioned that the start of the construction of the Kazungula Highway was at an advanced stage and might commence in the second or third quarter of next year.  However, he said he is concerned about complaints he receives from the public relating to public transporters who do not deliver passengers to their destinations.

'This alone forces the government to restrict operations and consider liberalisation of our routes. Wherever possible we will be forced to refuse certain individuals permits,' he warned. Also of concern, he said, were the endless complaints of pirates who transport passengers from shopping complexes without permits. 'These operators must be located so that appropriate departments can deal with them. We also need self-policing,' he noted. Ramsden cited the reckless and dangerous driving by some taxi and combi operators as a major concern.

The objective of the two-day conference is to inform stakeholders on the processes and related challenges obtain stakeholders participation and feedback and strengthen relations with stakeholders to improve service delivery.

Representatives from traffic police, Motor Vehicle Accident Fund (MVAF), public and freight operators, government officials and financial assistance organisations are attending the conference.