The semi-public transport system in Greater Maputo, referred to as “chapa”, is plagued by chaos due to post-election demonstrations. Practices like fare speculation, route diversion, and violence against police have made commuting increasingly perilous and cumbersome for users. Reports indicate a lack of safety and comfort, with public terminals resembling battlefields during peak transport hours.
In the metropolitan region of Greater Maputo, utilizing semi-public transport known as “chapa” has morphed into a challenging endeavor for countless citizens relying on it to commute daily. The crisis has intensified due to the chaos that has erupted in transport terminals and stops following recent electoral demonstrations.
Common practices among operators include route diversions, arbitrary passenger selection, unjust fare hikes, and the lack of adherence to police authority and traffic regulations. Additionally, the disregard for fellow commuters has contributed to increased waiting times and a fierce competition for seating, frequently compelling passengers to stand in overcrowded conditions while grasping the metal bars for safety.
Users face the burden of paying inflated fares; some are dropped off significantly away from desired destinations arbitrarily selected by drivers. This dire situation worsened when more than 30 public and privately operated buses were vandalized during the protests, reducing the options available to mitigate lengthy queues and crowded stop conditions.
The violence stemming from these demonstrations has also led to assaults on the Municipal Police and relevant transport associations that once managed terminal activities, resulting in a lawless environment for operators. Consequently, during peak hours, public transport terminals resemble battle zones, where comfort is a privilege reserved for those with the financial means.
Reports from “Notícias” indicate a pervasive sense of disorder among passengers utilizing these semi-public buses, highlighting the inaction of both Traffic and Municipal Police who appear apprehensive of potential violence from operators.
The semi-public transport system in Greater Maputo faces severe challenges marked by operational anarchy, exacerbated by violent demonstrations. Commuters are subjected to rising fares, overcrowding, and arbitrary treatment by operators, all within a context where law enforcement struggles to maintain order. This situation necessitates immediate and effective intervention to restore safety and efficiency in public transportation.
Original Source: clubofmozambique.com
