The Chronicle

BULAWAYO, Tuesday, January 12, 1993 — Bulawayo parents sending their children to school have expressed fears over the pupils’ safety due to fresh memories of the recent Popoteke River Bridge tragedy.

With schools opening today for the first term, the Renkini bus terminus was a hive of activity yesterday as children were catching buses to their respective schools. While they were excited, the parents expressed fears for their children’s safety during the last minute rush. Some said if they had alternative transport their children would not board buses.

“I am worried because of my son’s journey back to his rural school. The recent accident (Popoteke) is still fresh in my mind. I wish the driver could exercise caution,” said Mr John Ncube.

Mr Ncube, whose 14-year-old son was going to Tsholotsho, said most rural roads had potholes and to save lives, drivers should exercise great care.

Another parent, Mr Reuben Mlala, said most road accidents were caused by speeding drivers and faulty vehicles.

“The Government should impound all unroadworthy buses. Although they are part of the important transport system, people’s lives should be protected,” he said.

The Popoteke bus disaster occurred on New Year’s Eve when a Zupco bus was swept down the flooded Popoteke River at Chartsworth, near Masvingo, killing more than 20 people. Only 12 bodies have been recovered so far. Most parents preferred to send their children in new buses. Those that appeared old and rusty were shunned.

Said a bus driver of the Tiritezvi Bus Company: “People now prefer new buses. They say old ones easily get involved in accidents.” He added that since the “back to school” rush last weekend, the old buses had been losing business to new ones.