Zupco Buses Resume Service in Gweru to Ease Rising Commuter Fares
Commuters in Gweru are getting a break as the Government has brought back Zimbabwe United Passenger Company (Zupco) buses on key intercity routes.
The move comes after private operators increased fares, with passengers now paying as much as US$1 per trip, double the previous rate. Zupco tickets, by contrast, cost US$0.50, offering significant savings for everyday travellers.
Also Read: Fuel Hike Sparks Kombi Fare Increases in Harare
Fuel Price Surges Trigger Fare Hikes
The fare increases coincide with two consecutive fuel price adjustments this month. According to Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA), Diesel 50 now sells at ZiG52.19 per litre (US$2.05), while blended petrol (E5) is priced at ZiG55.13 per litre (US$2.17).
The government linked the increases to global oil supply disruptions caused by the ongoing US-Israel-Iran conflict, which has affected shipping routes and pushed international fuel prices upward.
Also Read: Commuters Feel The Pain As Kombi Fares Skyrocket 50 – 100% After Fuel Price Hike
Commuters Welcome Zupco, but Demand More
Gweru District Development Coordinator Tarisai Mudadigwa confirmed to The Chronicle, the fleet’s return, highlighting its role in reducing the financial pressure on residents.
“Zupco buses have resumed operations for intercity routes in Gweru to provide relief for commuters who are now being charged between US$0.75 and US$1 following the recent fuel price hike. Commuters are paying US$0.50 for the same route,” he said.
Private Operators Explain Higher Fares
Transport operators have defended the hike, attributing it to rising fuel costs. Amos Muzenda said,
“We understand commuters’ struggles, but operating costs have increased. The conflict in Iran has destabilised global oil markets, and these are expenses we cannot ignore.”
The conflict has particularly affected the Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy route, causing oil prices to surge past US$100 per barrel and impacting transport costs locally.
Government Plans to Cushion Consumers
While acknowledging the burden on commuters, the government stressed that fuel price adjustments are necessary to ensure a steady supply.
Officials said additional relief measures are being considered, with Zupco’s reintroduction serving as an immediate solution to help residents cope with rising fares.
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The post Zupco Buses Resume Service for Intercity Routes appeared first on iHarare News.
