Community Tollgate Relocation Stirs Mixed Feelings

By Stella Madzivanyika

The Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development tollgate relocation exercise meant to target tolling stations stationed within communities has surged mixed thoughts from motorists, villagers and ware sellers, Post on Sunday reports.

In an official statement to delegates Minister Transport and Infrastructural Development Hounarable Felix Mhona said the program is meant to target all tollgates within communities which include Inter Alia, Skyline, Seke amongst other tollgates within communities.

“The program set to relocate all tollgates within communities which includes Inter alia, Skyline, Seke and others.Tollgates within communities causing easy flow of transport as a positive effect,” said Hounarable Felix Mhona.

However the aggregate move by the ministry has already created Grey patches within motorists and dwellers close to the areas.

While speaking to this publication one motorist identified as Tapiwa said that it’s still unclear on the actual reason behind the exercise.

“l am aware that government under the ministry of transport is going to relocate this tollgate to place it in Bhora area. I am not aware of the actual reasons of the relocation, but the project is in process, because the ground is already cleared in Bhora area set for a new tollgate construction.”

Post On Sunday also got in touch with a local vendor identified as Mai Kuku showed gloom on the move by the ministry.

“The program is totally going to destroy our business as vendors at this tollgate, As for me l have many years selling oranges and apple fruits here. That is where l raise money for a living with my three school going children.

Tollgates in Zimbabwe have failed to satisfactorily serve their purpose, which is to construct and maintain roads across the country.

During the pre-budget seminar, legislators asked if the time for Insta tall has not lapsed alleging that they are still getting money from a project which is now close to 10 years.

The Ministry has received positive comments from the public with the work being done across the country.

Indeed people residing in areas where tollgates have been installed, got exemptions from the Zimbabwe National Road Authority (ZINARA) and some still find ways to avoid paying the tollgate.

Meanwhile, a sizable number of tollgates need proper structures and shelter for the safety of both employees and money being collected daily.