Transport Minister Considers Licence Revocation for Urban Connect After Fatal Crash

Felix Mhona, the Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development, is considering revoking the licence of Urban Connect Bus Service following a tragic accident near Beitbridge on Thursday, which led to the deaths of 25 people.

During a joint funeral service organized by the Government in Beitbridge on Friday, Mhona criticized the bus driver for reckless driving, suggesting that it played a role in the deadly crash. He questioned the driver’s actions, saying:

“Why was he speeding towards the toll gate? We may have to remove them from service.”

It was also revealed that the bus driver’s retest expired in 2021, and the bus was operating without a valid route permit.

Mhona also urged people to avoid filming accidents and to wait for official updates. He added:

“Let’s show respect for the deceased and wait for proper communication. Recording videos can cause more harm than good. We will investigate the cause of the accident and take action.”

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) reported that the accident took place at the 262-kilometre mark along the Masvingo-Beitbridge Road, near the Lutumba Toll Gate, at around 8 AM on Thursday, 13 February. The Urban Connect bus, with 65 passengers aboard, collided head-on with an Auro Transport haulage truck carrying four occupants.

The crash occurred as the bus attempted to overtake another vehicle while heading from Harare to Beitbridge, with the truck traveling in the opposite direction.

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